Brexit boat investigated by Shropshire Council for 'poor taste'
Officials at Shropshire Council have been ordered to investigate an image of a sinking ship placed by Brexit campaigners alongside a main road – after complaints it is a tasteless reference to migrants.
The council has confirmed it has launched a probe into the boat after receiving complaints.
Today Brexit campaigners said they were bemused by the ruling, insisting the image referred solely to the state of the EU and its connection to the UK.
The investigation was launched by Shropshire Council after it was approached by community group Fresh. Spokeswoman Marinke Fontein said: "It displays a lack of care and it's even threatening to migrants and refugees that are being settled here in Shropshire.
"It you look at it from the point of view that Shropshire is welcoming refugees, it just doesn't feel right to at the same time have this imagery."
Mr Sykes-Waller said: "The boat has nothing to do with migrants – it's about the countries that could soon be joining the EU.
"The boat is there to make the point."
He added: "It has made people think carefully about the way they consider voting."
Ian Kilby, Shropshire Council's operations manager for planning services, confirmed an investigation was under way after a complaint was received.
He said the structure cannot be immediately removed, and that officers will need to investigate further, meaning it is likely to remain until next Thursday's vote.
Mr Kilby said: "This 'ship' would appear to fall under the definition of an advert because it is drawing attention to a forthcoming event.
"It is not on Shropshire Council land, so we cannot enforce immediate removal.
"However, if it is part of a trailer capable of being towed, it may be exempt.
"Officers would need to investigate the structure further, and would then advise the landowner accordingly.
"Given the nature of the notification I would it expect it to be removed shortly following the referendum."
