A decades-old plaque on York’s Millennium Bridge bearing ex-Prince Andrew’s name has become the latest point of scrutiny amid the former duke’s scandal. The marker was installed after Andrew’s public appearance more than 20 years ago. But now the locals are reportedly debating over what should stay and what the city wants to remove. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor attended the bridge opening in May 2001. His name thus appears on the silver plate with others within the project.
Ex-Prince Andrew’s unveiled plaque on Millennium Bridge receives call for removal
Ex-Prince Andrew’s plaque hangs on York’s Millennium Bridge, which spans the River Ouse — with the wording on the plaque reading, “This plaque was unveiled by His Royal Highness The Duke of York, CVO, ADC.” Now, it has become a point of debate amid Andrew’s scandal.
The Mirror reported that the locals have been vocal about taking it down in recent months, as York has already stripped Andrew of the freedom of the city. Besides, some residents have pushed for blunt action. One local told the outlet, “Rip it down and stick it in a skip.” While another argued, “Don’t waste money altering it.”
Councillors have also weighed in, with Cllr Darryl Smalley, who led the move to remove Andrew’s freedom of the city, telling the Mirror, “Obviously it should be removed.” He added, “We just need to expunge all record of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the city.” Per Smalley, “We’ve done a pretty good job of that so far.”
Furthermore, council deputy leader Peter Kilbane told the BBC, “There is a planning process to follow where plaques are attached to listed buildings or structures whether it be to add, remove or alter.” However, he said, “We’re not aware of any heritage plaques linked to this individual.”
In addition, he noted, “On other structures we can make these changes more quickly and in a way that doesn’t diminish the valued roles played by individuals, businesses and other organisations, such as those responsible for delivering the original Millennium Bridge vision.”
Ex-Prince Andrew’s Millennium Bridge plaque represents a decision on how far the city wants to go to erase Andrew’s imprint from its streets amid his scandal.
