main content Stores prosecuted for illegal advertising boards

Two well known stores in Sevenoaks Way, Orpington have been prosecuted for obstructing the highway with illegal advertising boards. Carpetright and Sleepright both pleaded guilty to the offence at Bromley Magistrates’ Court last week. Each company was ordered to pay fines and costs of £500.

“Businesses need to be aware that obstructing pavements with advertising boards is hazardous for pedestrians and distracting for drivers. We will always warn traders if they are committing an offence and give them every opportunity to remove the illegal signs before taking further action” said Peter Turvey, Enforcement and Technical Support Manager.

The Court heard that during a routine inspection of Sevenoaks Way in December 2006, a Council Enforcement Officer discovered two illegal advertising boards placed on the pavement. The boards - advertising sales at Carpetright and Sleepright stores - were positioned next to each other on the public footway, causing an obstruction.

Carpetright had been warned about the illegal signs before and had been convicted of similar offences on five separate occasions. Sleepright were also made aware of the offence they were committing in a warning letter sent to them in November 2006. Legal action followed after the advertising boards of both stores were found still displayed on the pavement.

To report an unauthorised advertising sign on the highway, visit our neat street pages or call the Street Services Help Desk on 020 8313 4621.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• Both cases were heard at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on 21 February 2007.
• Each company was fined £300 with £200 costs.
• Carpetright has received five convictions to date for similar offences.
• For media enquiries, please contact Amy Bevins, Strategy Development Officer on 020 8313 4738 or Peter Turvey, Enforcement and Technical Support Manager on 020 8313 4901, or email amy.bevins@bromley.gov.uk
• Further information is available at www.bromley.gov.uk/neatstreet