Safety drive as new A-board rules are launched

5.47.29pm BST (GMT +0100) Sun 20th May 2007

Strict new rules controlling advertising boards in the borough are to be introduced by Richmond Council in a bid to improve pedestrian safety.

They come into force on June 4 and include a total ban on A-boards in selected streets in Richmond. In most areas where they are allowed, a minimum two-metre wide footway is specified for pedestrians to pass by. Letters explaining the new policy have been sent to around 300 businesses with Council officers visiting premises between June and September to check compliance. Enforcement action will be taken from September if necessary. From next month the boards must be located directly outside the business they are advertising and be easily seen and negotiated by passers-by. The rules also govern size, appearance and what the boards can be used to advertise and are being implemented in response to concerns raised by residents and local organisations.; Cllr Martin Elengorn, Cabinet Member for Environment on Richmond Council, said:??"A-boards are an important form of advertising for many businesses. But it is vital to balance commercial needs with the safety of pedestrians and poorly positioned A-boards can pose a real danger to, among others, the visually impaired and people with disabilities. While some councils have imposed a complete ban on boards in shopping areas, we have decided to take a commonsense approach, and allow traders to promote their businesses while ensuring pavements remain clear and accessible for all pedestrians. Safety is, of course, a paramount concern."

A-boards will be banned from the following streets in Richmond: Duke Street; Brewers Lane; George Street; Golden Court; Hill Street; Paved Court; King Street; Waterloo Place; Red Lion Street; Church Court (Footpath through Churchyard); Sheen Road (Eton Street to Church Road).