Roadside memorials and plaques to be banned

Roadside memorials and plaques are to be banned, with claims they are obstructive and a distraction for motorists.

The executive at North Northamptonshire Council approved the ban at a meeting last week, as part of the authority's updated highways network management plan.

The council said that because there were "alternative means of leaving a memorial to the victim of a collision" they would no longer be allowed.

Reform UK councillor Trevor Conway commended the plan but warned that "blanket prohibition risks being perceived of lacking compassion".

The council report said: "Such memorials can be a distraction for motorists and are potentially an obstruction to the public highway.

"Their long-term presence raises concerns over the maintenance, repair and insurance issues which in time are likely to rest with the highway authority.

"The memorials could become an attraction for vandalism, causing distress to relatives.

"Given the above and that there are alternative means of leaving a memorial to the victim of a collision, plaques and monuments will not be permitted by [the council] for this purpose."

Conway, the chairman of the place and environment scrutiny committee, said: "While rationale – safety, distraction risk and maintenance – is completely understandable, roadside memorials are deeply personal expressions of grief.

"A blanket prohibition risks being perceived of lacking compassion, regardless of intent, and carries reputational risk if not handled carefully."

The new guide will also standardise the process followed to keep traffic moving safely and efficiently, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

It offers guidance around coordinating works and activities, so roadworks cause less disruption, managing congestion, stronger enforcement on dealing with obstructions, and clarity on planning for electric vehicle charging, the council said.

It replaces the old Northamptonshire County Council version, which was adopted in 2021.

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