ePetition details

Celebrate Ali G in Staines-upon-Thames with a film-release attraction, community fundraising and a potential permanent landmark

We the undersigned petition the Council to 1. Establish a time-limited partnership with Visit Staines BID, residents, businesses and community organisations; 2. Approach Sacha Baron Cohen, his representatives and the relevant rights holders at an early stage, inviting him to help shape and potentially fund the initiative; 3. Explore a temporary licensed attraction, event or photo opportunity during the new film’s promotional period; 4. Assess public support and develop a permanent statue, sculpture or other landmark only if external funding is secured for its design, installation and maintenance; 5. include a secure donation facility supporting affordable sport, arts, leisure and community activities for children and young people in Staines; and 6. ensure the initiative meets the Council’s legal, financial, planning, safety and ethical requirements, while retaining suitable creative freedom for Ali G’s irreverent humour and satire.

This petition calls on Spelthorne Borough Council to explore a temporary Ali G attraction linked to the new film, releasing 23 October 2026, and a potential externally funded permanent landmark promoting Staines-upon-Thames and supporting activities for local children and young people, echoing Ali G's campaign to protect community leisure facilities in Ali G Indahouse.

Ali G and the Staines Massiv have given Staines a distinctive place in British popular culture. The release of a new film provides an opportunity to celebrate that connection, promote the town centre and create a lasting community benefit.

The petition does not ask the Council to immediately purchase a statue using Council Tax. It asks the Council to bring together the right partners, test a temporary attraction and consider a permanent landmark where it is feasible, properly licensed and externally funded.

We believe Staines should embrace the attention with humour and pride, while using it to support the next generation of the Staines Massiv.

Started by: Alex Balkan

This ePetition runs from 26/07/2026 to 24/08/2026.

52 people have signed this ePetition.