Lamp Post Banners: March 2023

Mountfield Road in Lewes now features two new lamppost banners, thanks to the initiative of Southover Primary Year 6 student, Juliette. The banners were the result of a Green United Youth Board competition designed to encourage safer road use during busy times and promote more active travel.

Juliette, who launched the competition, explained her inspiration: “What most inspired me was seeing a shocking photograph of Mountfield Road during the morning rush hour. Not only did it look really polluted, but very unsafe and slightly scary. We were looking for images and slogans that encouraged active travel, while being considerate of those who have no choice but to drive — such as people with mobility issues or families living too far to walk or cycle.”

The winning designs, created by Southover Primary students Chloe New and Chloe Combelles, were installed on the lampposts on 1 March 2023 with the help of East Sussex County Council Highways Department.

Judging and Support

The judging panel included a mix of professionals and students: Charlie Dobres (former Director, Lewes FC), graphic designers Claire and George Hadley, Juliette (Southover), Leo (Priory School) and Finnuala (St Pancras RC Primary School). Ian McKay oversaw the judging rules.

Charlie Dobres reflected: “Green United is such an impressive initiative, entirely led by primary and secondary school students. Some of my fellow judges were just 12 years old, and their opinions on the posters were so well reasoned — often clearer than what I’ve seen from seasoned adults in the ad industry. Every entry showed incredible effort, understanding and drawing skill. It was a privilege to be involved.”

Sheila O’Sullivan from Cycle Lewes & Lewes Living Streets added: “This is another great action by Green United. We need more people walking and cycling in our town. Fewer cars mean less congestion and cleaner air. Mountfield Road is very busy at the start and end of the school day, and these banners help remind everyone to be mindful of safety and the environment.”

Making It Happen

The idea for the banners emerged from a Green United Zoom discussion, where participants suggested using lampposts to promote environmental and safety messages. Juliette worked hard to bring the concept to life, producing a poster to launch the competition across all schools.

East Sussex County Council lighting engineer Jeremy Thorpe identified lampposts 8 and 18 on Mountfield Road as suitable for the 1000mm x 600mm banners using spring-loaded brackets. Despite technical challenges, Juliette’s persistence ensured the competition successfully launched on 30 September 2022, resulting in the striking banners now visible to the community.

The project demonstrates how young people, with creativity, persistence and support from local organisations, can take tangible action to make their town safer and more sustainable.