Bollard Becomes Popular Safety Feature in Nottinghamshire Lidl Car Park

A bollard, appreciated by shoppers and a deterrent for drivers, is enhancing safety in a car park by curbing motorist speeding. This black and yellow striped post, recently adorned with festive decorations and googly eyes, has achieved significant popularity since its placement in the Lidl car park located in Netherfield, Nottinghamshire. Its renown is such that it has inspired two dedicated Facebook pages, and the bollard, now referred to as Mr Post, is even listed as a “tourist attraction” on Google Maps. David Moore, a 79-year-old resident who frequents the Victoria Road shop daily, states that this addition contributes to a greater sense of security for people. He observed drivers exceeding speed limits in other car parks and trolley shelters being damaged, but noted this was not the case at his local Lidl. Positioned adjacent to a zebra crossing outside the store, Mr Post is notably larger than typical metallic bollards. Moore commented, “I think every shop should have [a bollard].” He further stated, “People need to learn not to speed around. That bollard improved safety.” Thelma Aris, a resident of Bulcote who drove to Lidl, shared similar sentiments, asserting, “Supermarkets should have protection for shoppers.” She recounted being “amazed” at the Lidl car park when she observed an SUV collide with the striped bollard. Aris stated, “He drove straight into it,” adding, “It absolutely wiped the front of his car.” She concluded, “That’s the only accident that I’ve seen. The bollard has marks now.” Fred Todd, also from Netherfield, reported personally witnessing the post being knocked over on four occasions, including one instance where an SUV reversed into it. However, he remarked, “I love it, it’s a talking point, every time you come it’s either up or been knocked down.” During a visit by the BBC to interview shoppers outside Lidl, Mr Post was observed without its festive adornments. Rachel Snarr had initiated the idea of adding the Santa hat, expressing that it would bring joy to people. She commented at the time, “It’s just for the community really.” Snarr further explained, “This time of year, not everybody enjoys Christmas so if they have something fun to look at and read, then why not?” Although the festive decorations may no longer be present, Mr Post has remained upright and prominent in the car park since its initial placement. Initially grey, the post was subsequently painted yellow after being struck by several vehicles. As this measure did not prevent further collisions with drivers, Mr Post was then given additional black and fluorescent stripes. On social media, Mr Post is also recognized as Netherfield Can Opener, with a Facebook page characterizing it as a “hungry bollard” that safeguards “the innocent by eating vehicles and taking them off the road.” A review on its Google Maps entry states: “[It’s] claimed more vehicles than a demolition derby, and still stands tall, mocking unsuspecting shoppers, one door panel at a time.” Another reviewer contributed: “Legend has it that he only reveals himself to those who are worthy. If you are not deemed worthy, then he turns invisible and attacks your car as you pass by.” A Lidl spokesperson affirmed that customer safety is their “top priority.” They stated, “Whilst the bollard has certainly made an impression, it’s there for a good reason – to protect pedestrians using the designated path in the car park.”