PEOPLE painting flags on roundabouts and other road markings in North Somerset – as part of a national trend – have been warned it is a criminal offence and can increase safety risks.
North Somerset Council has issued a statement in response to reports of several roundabouts and pedestrian crossings in the district being targeted.
Councillor Hannah Young, cabinet member for highways and transport, 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.
“We’re working closely with partners, including Avon and Somerset Police, to tackle this issue and will investigate where appropriate.”
READ MORE: Frome pedestrian crossing vandalised by ‘patriots’ – who then flung paint in the hedge
She said flags and other notices attached around roads and other highways will also be removed, as they could pose a risk should they come lose, or fall into traffic.
“The council is committed to supporting civic pride, but this must be in ways that are within the law,” Cllr Young added.
“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.”
The comments come after a number of Somerset towns reported vandalism to crossings and roundabouts, including in Frome.
A Union Flag flying over the town hall in Weston-super-Mare. Picture: Google
well sort this dam country out, like get rid of immigration, English people are fed up with the lies from government 🙄
Never heard this complaint when councils were putting pride flags all over the roads.