[** update , please note this was originally posted on the 1st of APRIL…. 🙂 **]
Marlow’s iconic bollards, the much-admired addition to Marlow Bridge, have won a prestigious design award.
“Bollard of the Year” was announced at an industry event last week at the Grosvenor Hotel in London, attended by the glitterati of the bollard world, and hosted by Ainsley Harriott.
In presenting the award, Ainsley said “The Marlow bollards transcend the mundane confines of traditional aesthetics. The sheer audacity of Marlow’s bollards lies not merely in their form, but in the seismic tremors they send through the hallowed halls of bollard design convention.”
He added that the judges had been impressed by “the very low-level design, which means the bollards cannot be seen at all as you drive through them, thus not obstructing the majestic view of Marlow Bridge.
He then added “This also adds a frisson of excitement as you are unsure if you will get through scot-free or with a very expensive bodywork repair, lol” to laughter from the audience.
The bollards have overtaken the bridge itself, and swans as the de-facto image of Marlow, and there is even a chance the town’s crest could be updated to incorporate them, which seems even more likely with this award win. MyMarlow understands there will be a consultation process, with various designs put to the public vote.
“This will really put Marlow on the map” said Mavis Girteka, when we called Buckinghamshire Council for comment. “Until now, Marlow has been mostly known for roadworks and 3-way traffic lights, so I’m hoping the national recognition resulting from this award will attract more investment in posh restaurants, and stuff like that.”
We asked Mavis in what official capacity she was commenting, and she replied “Oh, I don’t work for the council, I think you must have the wrong number. I’m just sat at home, halfway through a bottle of sherry, and watching Midsomer Murders”
