The graffiti that appeared at the Bearpit less than 48 hours after a month-long clean up is just an “expression of youth culture”, according to one of the businesses based there.
Rick Emerson, owner of retro and vintage clothing shop Loot, says the graffiti doesn’t both him or his customers at all.
In fact, he says he likes it.
“Historically the Bearpit represents vibrancy, creative discovery, exploration and expression of a new generation,” he explained.
“It's great that people are using the area since the clean-up - and the area has remained a lot cleaner and tidier, so it is a huge improvement. It has given us (as businesses) a boost."
And other business owners at the Bearpit agrees.
Jake Voekler, of Bristol Bicycles and Jakes Bikes, says it’s part of the character of the area.
"The graffiti isn't the problem,” he said. The issue has always been the anti-social behaviour... But in general it’s so much better since the clean-up - remaining tidy and the litter has been cleared up so the Bearpit is being used more than it was previously.
The comments follow a clean-up of the area by Bristol City Council, which put St James Barton Roundabout on lockdown on June 19 as they evicted squatters.
The council said it took action after "escalating" public safety fears after a man was left with a facial injury in an attack on June 18.
Rick says there is CCTV inside and outside his shop - and police are always called immediately at the first sign of anti-social behaviour.
“I want to concentrate on increasing the love for this area; the clean up is a great step in the right direction,” he added.
The local authority and Avon and Somerset police have said they are "committed" to taking robust action against any anti-social behaviour.
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