main content Dozy store prosecuted for illegal signs

A well known bed store has been prosecuted for placing advertising boards on the public highway outside their showroom in Sevenoaks Way, Orpington. Sleepright pleaded guilty by post to two highway obstruction offences, and were ordered by Bromley Magistrates’ Court to pay fines and costs totalling £1,600.

“This form of street advertising is illegal. Unauthorised signs on the street not only spoil the environment, they obstruct the public highway and distract drivers’ attention away from the road. Businesses are aware what they are doing is wrong, and if they continue to break the law they must face the consequences” said Peter Turvey, Enforcement and Technical Support Manager.

The court heard that it was during a regular inspection of Sevenoaks Way in June 2007, that a council enforcement officer found the illegal signs. Two large signs advertising a bed sale had been placed on the grass verge outside the store. As the store had been warned to remove the boards previously, legal action was taken.

Separate legal proceedings commenced after a further inspection in July 2007 found the advertising boards still displayed on the grass verge.

Companies wanting to place directional signs on the highway are advised to contact the council, otherwise the signs will be removed and legal action taken.

To report an unauthorised advertising sign on the highway, visit www.bromley.gov.uk  or call the Street Services help desk on 020 8313 4621.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• The case was heard at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on 9th January 2008.
• Sleepright was ordered to pay a fine of £500 plus £300 costs for each offence, within 28 days.
• The court was informed that the company had written to the store instructing it not to obstruct the highway again. 

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

Further information is available at www.bromley.gov.uk