Aberdeen councillors claim culture lovers in the city are being discouraged from visiting a series of artworks because of a “disgusting” mess surrounding it.
A group of local and international artists covered the historic Union Terrace Gardens arches, underneath Union Terrace, with a rainbow of graffiti art in August in a bid to brighten up the area.
But now fears have been raised that fans of street art are being put off visiting the site because of thick layers of pigeon waste, litter, and unpleasant smells in the area.
SNP Councillor John Corrall said: “I think the artwork in the arches is absolutely fantastic.
“The council goes on about promoting and creating culture, but this is an example of culture right here – and it’s been allowed to go to rack and ruin.
“It’s an absolute disgrace, and it’s disgusting.
“And in just a few short weeks, the Winter Festival will be going on just feet above this mess.
“The artists have done something truly exceptional here, but they are treating the work of these artists with contempt.
“If people haven’t been down to see these paintings, they ought to get down there because they will be astonished.”
Councillor Ian Yuill said: “It’s very disappointing.
“Union Terrace Gardens are an important part of the city centre, and it’s important that the council keeps it tidy and clean, and litter does not build up anywhere in the gardens, including the arches.
“There was a big effort to brighten up these arches and make them more attractive with the graffiti artwork, and it’s a huge shame because that effort could have been for nothing because of all of this mess.
“I hope the council will do better to keep the area cleaner in the future.”
A spokeswoman for Aberdeen City Council said: “Cleaning and maintaining the arches at Union Terrace Gardens is an on-going priority for our Environmental Service Team.
“We are aware of concerns about bird fouling and other issues and we will continue to work to keep the area clear.
“We have staff in the gardens daily.”