Ludlow A-boards spark danger fears

Council chiefs in Ludlow have claimed advertising A-boards could force people using mobility scooters and pushchairs into the path of oncoming traffic in the town centre.

Members of Ludlow Town Council say the A-boards could pose a health and safety risk unless measures are taken to limit the number businesses are allowed to use.

It comes after town councillors last week agreed to limit traders to one A-board per premises, while allowing provision for businesses to apply for extra in "exceptional circumstances".

A statement was released by the town council after a meeting on August 8.

Deputy town clerk Gina Wilding said: "Town mayor John Aitken acknowledged that the A-board pilot had been a difficult experience and had caused significant issues for Ludlow and the town council.

"Councillors sympathised with businesses and ack-nowledged the benefit of advertising to the local economy, but agreed there was need to limit the number of A-boards per premises."

Both Ludlow and Bridgnorth were part of a pilot project last year for controversial plans to limit the number of A-boards and street furniture outside town centre businesses.

While the scheme ran smoothly in Bridgnorth, it caused uproar on Ludlow and led to a poster campaign opposing Shropshire Council's plans.

Town councillors were given the chance to effectively opt out of Shropshire Council's policy at last week's meeting by not limiting traders to a maximum of two A-boards.