Liverpool's Superlambbanana has gone smokefree

March 17, 2006

SmokeFree Liverpool pulled out all the stops in the run up to the vote on making all workplaces smoke-free - by painting its message on one of the city's most culturally valued sculptures, the Superlambbanana.

In a bid to highlight it's campaign of ensuring 100% of workplaces become smoke-free, the iconic work of art was painted purple instead of its usual yellow, with the slogan 'Culturally SmokeFree' written on its sides.

However, once the Commons voted in favour of comprehensive smokefree legislation in the Health Bill, the wording was promptly changed to 'Nationally SmokeFree' - illustrating this national landmark decision.

Councillor Warren Bradley, Leader of Liverpool City Council said: "The 'Culturally SmokeFree' slogan emphasised that going smokefree is all about changing the culture of this city - making it a place where all people can go to work without being subjected to others' tobacco smoke.

"Once the positive amendments to the national legislation were passed, we wanted to shout the message from the rooftops - and writing the new message - 'Nationally SmokeFree' - on this iconic sculpture, seemed a fantastic way to do it."

Paula Grey, Director of Public Health said: "The vote in favour of a comprehensive smokefree legislation is a landmark decision and has been suitably broadcast to the city of Liverpool on one of its most culturally valued attractions.

"We are all very proud of the effort that has gone into campaigning for this change and now look forward to a brighter, healthier future."

As well as the purple paint job for the Superlambbanana, the run up to the vote saw a number of smokefree nights at pubs and clubs in the city, a visit by a dozen publicans to Cork, air quality testing at 20 private members clubs, and the progress of the 'Smokefree Merseyside' Bill in Parliament.