Council divided over dual language signs

​PLANS to have all street signs in Cornwall printed in both Cornish and English have split councillors.

Cornwall Council’s cabinet agreed to adopt a new Cornish Language policy at its meeting yesterday but some councillors branded the plans as “ridiculous and unnecessary”.

As well as using Cornish language on street signs the policy also states that the council should try and use Cornish in publications and on its website to help promote the language.

Councillors were told that the changes would not cost the council any extra as manufacturers would add the translations at no extra charge and will only apply for new signs or for signs that need replacing.

Mebyon Kernow leader and councillor Dick Cole said the move could boost Cornwall’s economy.

He said: “Cornwall’s uniqueness is its Celtic heritage and we have to promote that as a brand to attract more overseas visitors. These sorts of things are vitally important when trying to make an area stand out from the rest.”

Cllr Cole said that with the county bidding to be a region of culture it was “very positive” to be promoting parts of the Cornish culture such as its language.

However Cllr Morwenna Williams (Cons) said: “This will not be welcomed in my part of the county. Some people in Cornwall will find this ridiculous and unnecessary.”

Cllr Fiona Ferguson (Cons) suggested that the council should ask the public first before making a decision.

“I think we should be asking the local community – listening to the comments here some people are strongly in favour while some are very much against it.”