PAVEMENT advertising boards which pose an obstruction hazard in Ashburton are in the firing line of space-conscious town councillors.

They are sending off letters to all traders reminding them of the need to make sure no one’s passage is impeded by the signs.

The ‘get tough’ initiative comes after concerns were raised from one resident about 24 named local businesses falling foul of the rules of the road and its sidewalks.

Complainant June Wood listed 11 instances in East Street, six in North Street, three each in West Street and Kingsbridge Lane and a single offender in St Lawrence Lane.

She claimed the mess of hoardings was a cause of much anxiety to many pedestrians, with particular problems experienced by the elderly and those manoeuvring prams, wheelchairs and walking frames around the nuisance obstacles.

Councillors noted the author’s grievances in March and have since responded with a pledge to write to those listed.

Members of the general purposes committee agreed to despatch a letter to traders warning them a clear metre should be measured to allow unfettered passage for pedestrian traffic.

‘Highways could enforce this and all boards would be removed,’ the committee warned those who failed to take heed.

The town’s chamber of trade is due to discuss the matter.