Swindon Bollards Painted Like Cigarettes Divide Locals, Spark Public Health Debate

In Swindon, UK, three bollards on Hythe Road have been painted white and orange to resemble giant cigarettes, sparking mixed reactions among locals. While some residents find the street art humorous and a creative improvement over plain bollards, others consider the design 'disgusting' and inappropriate. Supporters have praised the anonymous artist for enhancing the area and expressed hope that similar artistic initiatives continue. However, Swindon Borough Council acknowledged the creativity but highlighted concerns that the cigarette imagery conflicts with public health efforts to encourage smoking cessation. The council also encouraged smokers seeking help to access stop smoking resources on their website. Overall, the artwork has divided opinion, with calls both to preserve the installation and to question its suitability given its potential influence on former smokers.