Dough LoCo is a small family run business in the Bailgate area of Lincoln. Born out of charity roots during the first lockdown, we still give back to the local and wider community on a regular basis. We've created a fun and vibrant restaurant which caters for everyone from families, couples, friends and large parties.
 
Our outside dining area - which is privately owned and in an enclosed courtyard - was recently transformed into a bright and creative space to host our customers, by employing a graffiti artist to add some colour and style to the otherwise dull and dark wall (photos attached)
 
We then received notice from the Council that we had to remove the art or face criminal proceedings, a fine and a possible jail sentence for criminal damage.
 
After a while of back and forth with the council, whereby we tried to appeal to their human side seeing as we’re a new, independent small business, it was clear we had no choice but to cover up the art with the prescribed black masonry paint (photo attached) or be taken to court. The area within which our business resides is historic, but the City of Lincoln has rapidly changed and progressed since Lincoln Uni moved in, took hold and wholly changed the city’s demographic. This progression has been reflected throughout the city with new businesses and venues opening and Lincoln has the potential to be a thriving city which marries old and new perfectly well. We often received praise from customers for opening our premises in Lincoln’s historic quarter, rather than opting to join all the other contemporary chain restaurants in the Downhill area of the City. Lincoln’s Uphill area has countless cultural, contemporary businesses and details - it is the perfect place for blending trend with classic. 
 
Although the art is now gone and the wall and terrace is looking sad and dull, I am campaigning to bring our art back. This wall could be a space for artists to share their work and showcase their talent. A revolving and ever-changing wall of art would bring life and vibrancy into an area of Lincoln which has none.
 
Like all small independent businesses across the country, it is getting harder and harder to compete with the big chains and our art wall was part of our unique identity and branding. It helped us attract diners, it boosted their experience with us as they’d often pose for photos with it, and it offered a fun and contemporary space for them to enjoy their time in. 
 
All we ask in support of this wall - and hopefully to set a precedent for future artistic installations - is a signature.