Overview
- A temporary wildlife warning was mounted on a lamppost on Daws Heath Road near Southend-on-Sea at a reported cost of £7,000.
- Councillor John Knott, who says he has never seen ducks at the site in 25 years, has lodged a formal request for an explanation of the spend.
- Essex Highways maintains ducks frequently cross there due to a nearby nature reserve and says such signs follow safety surveys, resident reports and officer recommendations.
- Residents have voiced incredulity, with local councillor Matthew Coates also seeking clarity as the story draws national attention.
- The dispute unfolds against longstanding concerns about speeding, roadkill and crashes on the route, and no decision has been announced to remove the sign.