A coastal town is eliminating street markings introduced during the coronavirus outbreak as residents clash over whether they hold historical value and what the local authority should prioritise.
The obsolete Covid-19 physical distancing markers dotted across Brighton city centre will be taken down the week after next.
Councillor Jacob Allen representing Woodingdean, who also holds the public spaces cabinet brief, made this decision public.
On April 15, Councillor Allen posted on social media that he backed the removal of redundant street fixtures.
The online update attracted considerable reaction, with some locals insisting the markers should be kept as artefacts of a significant period.
Nash Travelman responded suggesting the items could be relocated while preserving a specimen for the Brighton museum, noting the pandemic represented for many who were too young to remember September 11 the most significant event of their lives. He added that history constantly evolves yet the genuine human impact of this particular chapter cannot be dismissed.
Councillor Allen disclosed he had arranged for at least one marker to be relocated to The Keep, describing the signage as currently unsuitable for museum presentation.
Other commenters proposed auctioning the markers to raise money for the council or charitable purposes.
Juliette Teague commented that selling them could benefit the authority or a worthy cause, given their historical significance.
Some residents contended that obsolete items contribute to an area’s heritage atmosphere, advocating for leaving the markers where they stand.
Dan Thomas observed that it can be charming when such artefacts remain in position, comparable to how some older buildings still bear air raid shelter notices.
Others expressed broader concerns about urban clutter, pointing to outdated traffic regulations and development notices secured to lamp posts with cable ties.
Councillor Allen noted he had addressed this issue since taking on the cabinet role, and that crews responsible for street upkeep now possess the authority to remove expired postings.