“We were all hoping to adorn the main Village Green for next Spring … but sadly the Parish Council last night rejected my plan,” said Brian May.
The Elstead Parish Council denied May’s proposal to plant daffodils on the village green on April 30, 2026. They cited safety concerns regarding sight lines for traffic as the reason for their decision.
May expressed confusion over the council’s reasoning. He questioned how 18-inch daffodil stalks could obstruct views, especially when parked vehicles like ice cream vans can be up to seven feet tall.
In a previous initiative last year, May donated 3,000 daffodil bulbs to the local community. Those bulbs bloomed unexpectedly in bright yellow instead of the intended colors due to a supply error.
The council acknowledged that many residents supported May’s daffodil planting idea. “We fully understand that this will be disappointing,” a council spokesperson stated.
The village green serves as an important space for community events and is valued by residents. However, the council emphasized its duty to balance community initiatives with safety and accessibility.
May did not accept alternative locations for planting offered by the council. He indicated he might revisit his plans in the future, stating that he remains committed to engaging with the local community.
