Laura Sharman 11 June 2020

Council to remove Robert Baden-Powell statue from Poole

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council is removing a statue of Robert Baden-Powell today from Poole Quay.

The council said it was being removed to avoid the risk of any public disorder and would be put into safe storage for now.

Baden-Powell, who founded the scout movement, has been criticised for his homophobic views and support of Hitler.

Leader of the council, cllr Vikki Slade, said: 'Whilst famed for the creation of the Scouts, we also recognise that there are some aspects of Robert Baden-Powell’s life that are considered less worthy of commemoration.

'Therefore, we are removing the statue so that we can properly involve all relevant communities and groups in discussions about its future, including whether a more educational presentation of his life in a different setting might be more appropriate.'

Councils across the UK have pledged to review statues, street names and plaques following this week's Black Lives Matter protests.

Photo: © David Dixon

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Executive Director of Place and Customer

Essex County Council
up to £179,404 per annum
Shape the Future of Essex. Drive climate action. Deliver for our communities. Essex
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Director of Social Work and Social Care

Trafford Council
£100,731 to £104,625
You will join a values-driven senior leadership team, providing visible and responsive leadership. Manchester
Recuriter: Trafford Council

Housing Ombudsman

Housing Ombudsman Service
£130,095 per annum, negotiable based on experience.
The Housing Ombudsman Service allows colleagues to choose if they wish to work in the London office, from home or a hybrid of the two London (Greater)
Recuriter: Housing Ombudsman Service

Lead Commissioning Officer

Essex County Council
£42452 - £49943 per annum + Flexible Working, Hybrid Working
This is a fixed term contract or secondment opportunity for up to 12 months.Interviews will be held on 3rd March 2026.*Experience the best of both wo England, Essex, Chelmsford
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Specialist Tutor - Employability/Well-Being

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Band E SCP 18-25 (£31,537 - £36,363 per annum)
Sandwell Adult and Family Learning Service has an exciting opportunity for 2 full-time specialist tutors Sandwell, West Midlands
Recuriter: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Linkedin Banner