Overview

• A pre-action letter from resident Blessing Olubanjo, backed by the Christian Legal Centre, claims the crossings amount to unlawful political messaging under the Local Government Act 1986 and infringe freedom of belief under the Human Rights Act 1998.
• The four zebra crossings at Tavistock Place and Marchmont Street were painted in transgender pride colours in November 2021 at a cost of £10,464 to celebrate transgender awareness and local LGBTQ+ heritage.
• Olubanjo argues that the painted crossings violate political neutrality and marginalise people of faith, calling for their removal or redesign.
• The Royal National Institute for the Blind and Transport for London’s Independent Disability Advisory Group warned in 2021 that colourful crossings could confuse blind, visually impaired or sensory-sensitive pedestrians.
• Camden Council has formally rejected the legal threats, reaffirmed its commitment to LGBTQ+ support and has yet to confirm whether it will contest a formal lawsuit.