Rainbow crossings return to Greenwich in support of Gay Pride

Pedestrian crossing across the borough have been painted in rainbow colours, brightening up streets in seven different locations and making a strong statement about celebrating diversity.

The Pride crossings have already received positive feedback, and pleased local residents have been sending in photos of them at the sites to the council.

This is the second year the crossing have been painted with rainbows after they proved a success in 2019, and this year the number has been ramped up.

Pride crossings can be found in the town centres of Greenwich, Plumstead, Charlton and Eltham, and in Woolwich, the council has targeting the junction of Thomas Street and Wellington Street to create a 'Pride Junction'.

Council leader Danny Thorpe said he was "delighted" to see the return of the Pride crossings in Greenwich.

"The crossings were extremely popular last year and we received lots of positive comments and feedback from our residents.

"It is important that, now more than ever, we continue to promote equality and diversity in our borough.

"As a council we are proud of Royal Greenwich’s inclusivity and are committed to doing all that we can to champion this."

The crossings have been funded through ward budgets allocated by councillors, and can be sponsored.

Cllr Adel Khaireh, cabinet member for culture and communities, said: "Diversity is one of our greatest assets that should be celebrated, and the Pride crossings are a reminder to us all that, as a community, everyone is valued.

"We must continue to promote equality, celebrate diversity and share experiences within and beyond our communities."

Over the weekend, Greenwich Council also painted 'Black Lives Matter' in giant letters across General Gordon Square in Woolwich.

The move, a show of solidarity with those protesting against racism and inequality, has proved popular.