The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
Police called to stand-off over banner
Police were called to a climate change demonstration in Moray after activists became embroiled in an argument with roads officials about bridge banners.
Extinction Rebellion activists fixed the “no future in fossil fuels” and “tell the truth” signs to railings on a footbridge over the A96 Aberdeen to Inverness road in Elgin yesterday morning.
However, within an hour, officials from Bear Scotland attended to demand the banners be removed – despite similar demonstrations passing without incident in Forres earlier this year.
Police were then called to the scene after a stand-off ensued when protestors refused to remove the signs despite claims of “safety concerns”.
The bridge near Cooper Park is also a popular spot for birthday messages to be hung.
Demonstrator Simon Clark said: “We’re aware our messaging isn’ t comfortable. I don’t think we would have had the same issue if they had said ‘Happy birthday Gillian’.
“The safety issue appeared to be from drivers looking up and becoming distracted, which is of course a possibility, but the roads are full of distractions, adverts and signs.
“The police were very good and accepted the distraction was negligible, checked the fixings on the banners and were impressed by them.”
Road traffic legislation states any unauthorised sign may be removed by the relevant authority, particularly if they obstruct visibility, create a distraction or block carriageways or pavements.
However, the rules allow for signs to be put up for not-for-profit, charity and community purposes – provided they are in a suitable location, do not create a safety hazard and are not there for an extended period of time.
At least two members of Extinction Rebellion remained with their banners, which were removed at the end of the demonstration yesterday.
The display was timed to encourage people to participate in climate change discussions with Scotland’ s Citizens’ Assembly, which wants members of the public to help shape its talks.
Police did not take action against the activists but monitored the protest.
Inspector Keli McPhail said: “At about 8.45am, officers were called to a report of a protest on Alexandra Road, over the A96 in Elgin. Officers attended and spoke to those in attendance. The protest was peaceful and organised.”
A Bear Scotland spokeswoman said: “Trunk road safety is a top priority for us and any unauthorised road signs or banners that could distract drivers are removed for safety reasons once highlighted to our teams.”