Call for 'rainbow crossings' in every Hertfordshire district

Abbots Langley councillor Sara Bedford has already drawn up plans for 'rainbow crossings' in her own district of Three Rivers.

But she would like to see them extended across the whole county.

'Rainbow' or 'progress pride' crossings have already been installed by a number of councils across the country.

The distinctive markings feature lines in the six colours of the rainbow flag – a symbol of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender pride.

Related: Plans in place for two 'rainbow crossings' in Three Rivers

An example of a rainbow crossing in Greenwich. Credit: Greenwich Council/News Shopper

Cllr Bedford told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: "The crossings look colourful – and they will encourage discussion - and make it clear to everyone that Hertfordshire is a place not just of opportunity but of tolerance and respect for people of diverse backgrounds.

"And that’s not just in terms of sexuality but also gender and racial heritage."

Cllr Bedford stresses road safety would be the primary consideration in the siting of the crossings.

And countering those who may be dismissive of the idea, she said: "I know there are people who will say this is 'gesture politics'.

"But there’s nothing wrong in a publicity campaign that encourages people to think more about how they treat others  – and to make it clear to our diverse communities that they are all respected for who they are."

Three Rivers District and Hertfordshire County Council Liberal Democrat councillor Sara Bedford

Cllr Bedford put forward the idea of rainbow crossings in all of Hertfordshire's ten districts at a full county council meeting in July.

The Liberal Democrat motion reads: "Progress Pride’ crossings with rainbow colours and chevrons to mark trans and non-binary people, people of colour and those living with HIV/AIDS would show our respect for the diversity of Hertfordshire.

"Officers are therefore requested to bring forward plans to repaint one or more such crossings in each district to reflect this as soon possible."

The motion was not formally debated but it will be referred to the council’s highways and transport cabinet panel for consideration.

Rainbow crossings have already been lined up for by Three Rivers District Council's offices in Rickmansworth, as well as in Leavesden Country Park.