PLANS for hefty advertising boards to be installed in Colchester have been called “perverse” by the city’s high steward.
Sir Bob Russell said the BT proposals ignore Colchester Council’s decision to ban A-boards in the city centre.
The advertising boards were blacklisted by the authority in October 2017 when a public spaces protection order was introduced.
Then public safety boss Mike Lilley took the decision in a bid to make the city centre more accessible for wheelchair users and blind and partially-sighted people.
But now fresh plans to install eight foot tall electronic advertising boards in Lion Walk and High Street have been submitted by BT.
The firm hopes phone boxes already at the sites will be replaced by the large units if the proposals are given the green light.
“I find it perverse that the council has banned A-boards, yet here we have a national private company wanting to plonk hideous advertisement structures on the pavement for which they do not pay a rent for the public highway which they are obstructing,” said Sir Bob.
“Whereas a licence fee is charged for a café to place tables and chairs on the pavement.
“It would show inconsistency and unfairness towards local businesses.”
Under the plans, the boards would be put in place outside Lloyds Bank and the Salvation Army in High Street, with another built in Lion Walk.
But Colchester Civic Society hit out at the application, claiming it would be an eyesore which solely benefits BT.
The group said: “The singular purpose is a revenue stream for BT to display its clients adverts.
“We are to be persuaded that the modest percentage of community/council time on display will compensate.
“Planners have argued these hubs would be uncharacteristic and visually disruptive, detrimental in terms of visual impact and impact neighbouring properties.
“Digital adverts should not be supported on street furniture in conservation areas under any circumstance and we particularly hope the application will be rejected.”
Colchester Council has the final say on the planning applications.
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