Decision details

Purpose of Report: To advise on options with regards to a council approach to the siting of "A" Boards on the public highway.

Members are asked to approve the development of a policy/procedure and undertake consultation with key stakeholders, on the basis of a regulated/licensed approach.

Resolved:  That the Executive agree to request:

(i)    That Officers prepare a Consultation Draft Policy to include a formal licensing arrangement for A Boards in accordance with strict criteria, (this being consistent with the earlier Cabinet resolution)  and commence a consultation exercise on the Draft Policy over forthcoming months;

(ii)   That such consultation to be focused to provide engagement with representatives of the business community, in particular retail groups and the Business Improvement District and also representatives of those who are blind and partially sighted, those with mobility issues such as charities/groups including the RNIB, Guide Dogs and York specific groups, such as York Blind and Partially Sighted Society;

(iii) That a further report be brought to the Executive later in the year to present the findings of this consultation and a recommended Final Draft Policy, together with estimated financial implications of implementation and enforcement. At this next stage the Final Draft Policy will have been the subject of a full Equalities Impact Assessment and consultation process, before being recommended to Members for approval. 

Reason:   To provide adequate control of the many and varied obstructions (particularly for those with impaired mobility for example, blind and/or partially sighted) temporarily located on the public highway. This taking into account of the Council’s responsibilities under the Highways Act 1980, the Equality Act 2010 and Town & Country Planning Act 1990. To contribute further to the removal of street clutter, improve the street scene and public realm.