A Just Stop Oil protester who sprayed orange powder across the ancient stones of Stonehenge has defended his actions in court, describing the controversial demonstration as intentionally designed to appear "spectacular."
Monumental Protest Draws Legal Scrutiny
The activist appeared before magistrates to answer charges relating to the environmental protest that saw the iconic prehistoric monument targeted with coloured cornflour. The court heard how the demonstration was carefully planned to create maximum visual impact while causing minimal permanent damage to the protected heritage site.
'Symbolic Action' for Climate Awareness
During proceedings, the defendant argued that the powder attack represented a "symbolic action" intended to draw public attention to the escalating climate crisis. The orange substance, described as biodegradable cornflour, was chosen specifically for its temporary nature and ease of removal from the ancient stones.
The protest sparked immediate outrage and widespread condemnation from heritage organisations and government officials alike. English Heritage, which manages the UNESCO World Heritage Site, expressed deep concern about the potential damage to the 5,000-year-old monument, despite protesters' claims about the powder's harmless composition.
Legal Repercussions for Environmental Activism
This case represents the latest in a series of legal challenges facing environmental activists who have targeted high-profile cultural landmarks across Britain. The court must now balance concerns about protecting ancient monuments against rights to peaceful protest in an era of growing climate anxiety.
Police and heritage security experts are reportedly reviewing protection measures for other vulnerable historical sites following the incident, which temporarily closed Stonehenge to visitors and required specialist cleaning operations.
The hearing continues as authorities consider the appropriate response to what many are calling an escalation in environmental protest tactics targeting Britain's cultural heritage.
