The yellow bollard invasion

A number of residents have contacted us in recent months regarding the replacement of the 'caution' bollards in many streets in Maida Vale.

Around 130 old-style white box 'caution' bollards have been replaced over the Summer with a new yellow design. The previous bollards were coming to the end of their lifespans and a number in our local area were looking very worn after having been clipped over several years.

The new bollards do not require mains electricity (being solar powered and highly reflective), thus saving energy and the periodic need to change the internal lamps. In addition, there is no internal cleaning required, reducing servicing and maintenance time.

All very laudable - and it's great to see a reduction in electricity use in the Council's infrastructure. However, as many residents have told us (and as we agree), the bollards simply aren't as subtle as the previous ones. It's not the biggest issue in the world but we think the design and colour of the bollards are often out of keeping with our local streets.

Of course, the new bollards have only just started their operational lives and will be in the area for a number of years. When the Council begins to discuss their renewal in years to come, we'll definitely ask the Transport Department to take into account resident's comments and will press for a more subtle version!

Lee