The shrine was set up outside the Royal Artillery barracks where Lee, 25, was killed in Woolwich, South East London
The shrine was set up outside the Royal Artillery barracks where Lee, 25, was killed in Woolwich, South East London.
St George's and Union Jack flags along with banners and wreaths with heartfelt messages were tied to railings in tribute to Fusilier Rigby.
But Greenwich council stepped into remove the unofficial memorial yesterday following complaints from residents.
The local authority confirmed the move came after discussions with police, the army, locals and Lee's family.
A council spokesman said in a statement: "We are are acting now because the number of items has expanded significantly in recent months and many have been weathered, worn and look unsightly.
"We are also aware of the fact there is a nearby school whose pupils have to walk past this every morning and every evening."
But the decision has been slammed by some locals.
Dean Hirst wrote: "Bull****!!! They're just sick of seeing the sight of it."
Patricia Thatcher blasted: "It's disgusting they should replace the flags."
Another fumed: "Wrong on many levels.
"You show so much contempt to the British people.
"Disgraceful. Have you no shame? Maybe all memorials should be removed, if that's your stance."
Danny Taylor, who launched a fundraising page to try pay for its upkeep, has vowed to replace the flags.
He said: “I was in the process of getting all new flags and banners to be put up this week or next anyway and it would have been kept looking nice.”
Lee was hacked to death by Islamic extremists Michael Adebolajo, 25, and Michael Adebowale, 32, on May 22, 2013.
A march has been organised by locals in protest that will leave from Woolwich Arsenal Station on Sunday at 12 noon and lay flowers at the site.
