Bucks Council reveals cost for Covid signs throughout county

Buckinghamshire Council has spent almost £70,000 in public money on two versions of the notices to date.

It said the first round of signs cost £33,800, including installation.

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The newer orange and black signage cost around £35,000, it said. This included the costs for larger notices, additional quantities, installation, and removal of the originals.

Money for the signs came from ringfenced government grants “to be used in responding to Covid”.

The authority said it made the original notices “last as long as possible” but replaced them when there was no option due to major changes in the national situation.

The council said rollout of the latest advice “should be completed this week in main towns and areas of higher Covid cases”.

Earlier signs that are “damaged, weathered or vandalised” will be binned, with the rest bound for storage.

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A council spokesperson said: “With the recent surge in coronavirus cases and the current national lockdown, signage remains one of the most important visual reminders for people to take extra care when they are making essential journeys allowed under the latest legislation.

“Following the first round of signage, we’ve now redesigned with new colours, stronger messaging and increased the amount of signs to get people’s attention. Of course, the safest place is still to stay at home, but if you have to go out, be careful and be responsible.

“We would ask everyone to please continue to follow the ‘Stay at Home’ rules to the letter to help keep yourself and your loved ones safe, and to protect the NHS.”

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