Flower power marks the way for social distancing
ATTRACTIVE floral designs are being used as social distancing markers in Leamington as lockdown restrictions are eased by the Government.
The colourful spacers - including arrows and flowers painted on pavements - have been unveiled across towns and cities to help people follow social distancing guidelines.
They are designed to help keep people two metres apart to avoid the spread of coronavirus once high street businesses fully reopen.
BID Leamington said the creative floor graphics are also a first of their kind and are located at key junctions along the town’s main shopping parade.
Stephanie Kerr, executive director of BID Leamington, said: “We wanted pavement graphics that would be less authoritative and more welcoming, and came up with the idea of colourful flowers as we felt it reflected our town and would be enjoyed and embraced more. As we plan for the gradual opening up of the town centre, it is important to us that our community knows we are thinking about ongoing safety.
“Fostering trust and loyalty is more important than ever as more people start to return, and we see creative signage as part of that.
“We installed a first bunch as a trial to gauge feedback and the response was incredibly positive.
“Where possible, we will be using them throughout the town centre and are working in partnership with businesses and other stakeholders to help manage other public space challenges, such as queuing.
“I think there was tangible relief that the interventions being installed to protect them were also attractive, colourful and lifted the spirits.
“Parents have told us that it is also easier to get their children to stand by them, as they are fun and interesting.
“We have also been contacted by schools, who have also identified the value of using them to reduce stress and anxiety for returning students, which is relevant to us all.”