A councillor has come back at claims Wilmslow is littered with ugly signs.
Brian McGavin, of the Wilmslow Trust, complained last week that Wilmslow is becoming the ‘street clutter capital of Cheshire’, after a proliferation of advertising boards and other unnecessary signs.
The ‘A-boards’ have also been a source of debate at the town council.
But Coun Rod Menlove, Cheshire East Cabinet member in charge of the environment, said the council has struck the right balance between helping businesses and keeping streets clear.
This is determined by the council’s Clear Way Forward policy.
Technically the only signs on the highway should be those to help road safety or traffic flow, placed by councils and utility companies.
A-boards placed by businesses have become part of the street scene and are allowed without a licence, if they meet guidelines and don’t cause a hazard.
But business owners must move signs if asked to – or the council will.
Coun Menlove said: “We have made great strides in improving the street scene of Cheshire East and de-cluttering our high streets.
“An excessive number of signs can prove an obstruction to pedestrians, especially those with pushchairs, visual impairments and disabilities.
“However, we must recognise these signs support local businesses through difficult economic times and are an essential part of the vibrancy of the town centre.
“I have also spoken with Wilmslow Business Group on this matter.
“We believe we have struck the right balance but are mindful that businesses are free to place advertising boards on their own land – this is sometimes wrongly presumed to be on the public highway.”
