The legacy of radio in Chelmsford, UK will be controversially erased from its road signs in a "bureaucratic" debate over word count and safety, according to the Essex Chronicle.
The ongoing dispute, lasting since Chelmsford was granted city status in 2012, could be resolved when the city and county councils meet on Thursday, January 8.
Critics believe it is the latest in a long line of assaults on the legacy of Guglielmo Marconi, who opened the first wireless factory in Hall Street in 1898 after migrating from Italy.
The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2015 legislation states road users must not be distracted and that "safety must never be compromised".
Ex-Marconi worker of 48 years Mr Turrall, once also the firm's publicity director, believes if the city council has no choice, it could work harder to preserve heritage elsewhere.
Marconi's 1912 New Street factory is being converted into 418 homes and his first Hall Street factory recently got permission to become six flats.
Chelmsford Community Radio Off Air Director Matt Eaves, whose team met with Marconi's daughter Princess Elettra in Italy this year, said: "I think it's fair to say that Princess Elettra would be disappointed.
"I think it's a terrible thing if they take those signs down because the whole world listens to radio."
Chelmsford Civic Society chairman Malcolm Noble said: "The civic society is firmly committed to signage generally that reflects the Marconi heritage."
Read More Now
Yet they do not recognise the potential danger of filthy road.signs obscured by vegetation that are difficult to read.
ReplyDelete