News / North Somerset
Council warns people against painting the St George’s Cross on roads
North Somerset Council has urged people to stop painting the St George’s Cross over road markings.
Hannah Young, the council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, said in a statement: “The council is committed to supporting civic pride, but this must be in ways that are within the law.”
In North Somerset, Bristol and across the country, some white road markings including mini-roundabouts, dotted lines, and zebra crossings have been painted with the St George’s Cross to resemble the English flag. But the council has warned it is unsafe and illegal.
is needed now More than ever
Paintings of the St George’s Cross have shown up across Bristol, North Somerset and other parts of the country
Young said: “We understand how important national symbols are to many people and North Somerset Council is proud to fly the Union Flag from locations including the Town Hall in Weston-super-Mare. However, this pride should be shown in ways that are respectful and safe.
“We are aware of a small number of incidents where roundabouts and zebra crossings have been damaged or painted over. We urge people not to paint symbols over road markings as it can have an impact on visibility, distract drivers and increase the risk of accident for both road users and pedestrians. Road markings are strictly regulated for safety reasons and it is a criminal offence to deface them under the Highways Act 1980.”
In Yatton, where roundabouts and a newly-installed zebra crosses were defaced with the St George’s Cross, local councillor Steve Bridger (Independent) warned: “North Somerset Council will track the cost of re-painting which will be an additional expense that will regrettably ultimately fall to local taxpayers.
“There are many ways to show pride in our country. As anyone who has seen me cheering on our national sporting teams will know, I am as patriotic as anyone. Symbols such as the St George’s Cross and the Union Flag can indeed be powerful expressions of community spirit, but they belong on homes, civic buildings, and designated flagpoles – places where pride unites us rather than causes division.”
“I am, however, proud and grateful for the countless small acts of kindness shown by residents in Yatton every day — including those that express pride in positive, constructive ways. Long may that continue.”
Young added: “Where flags and other notices have been attached to the highway without permission, they pose a similar risk as they can fall and obstruct the view of drivers, therefore they will also be removed. […] The cleaning of defaced road markings and the removal of unauthorised banners costs money which takes valuable resources away from delivering other, much valued council services.
“We’re working closely with partners, including Avon and Somerset Police, to tackle this issue and will investigate where appropriate. Please report damage to our highways using the form on our website at www.n-somerset.gov.uk/do-it-online/report-or-request-services.”
All photos: John Wimperis
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