main content Illegal signs make an exhibition of events promoter

An events promoter has been found guilty of placing unauthorised advertising signs on the highway. David Read, owner of Exhibition Team Ltd, was ordered to pay fines and costs totalling £2,900 by Bromley Magistrates Court. The illegal signs advertised an event at Squerreys Court, Westerham, during August last year.

“We will not tolerate any form of illegal advertising on the highway - not only do these signs spoil the appearance of our environment, but they are put up without any thought for public safety. It could be lethal if drivers attention is diverted by them. The Court has made it clear that risking peoples lives for the sake of a few cheap roadside advertisements, cannot be condoned.” said Councillor George Taylor, Executive Councillor for the Environment.

During the trial last month, the Court heard that several signs, measuring 2 feet 6 inches by 2 feet, were staked in the grass area on the roundabout at Links Way and South Eden Park Road, Beckenham. Councillor George Taylor and Gordon Hayward, Director of Environment and Leisure Services, both witnessed the illegal signs and gave evidence in Court. In total, 45 signs had been positioned illegally at various locations on the road between Beckenham and Green Street Green. Squerreys Court, the 17th century manor house at Westerham, was unaware that the promoter had used the signs to advertise their event.

To report an illegal sign or highway obstruction, call the Street Services Help Desk on: 020 8313 4621.

ENDS

• For media enquiries, please contact Andrew Rogers, Communications Advisor on 020 8461 7670 e-mail andrew.rogers@bromley.gov.uk or Peter Turvey, Enforcement and Technical Support Manager on 020 8313 4901