BUSINESS owners will need to have a licence to display advertising boards outside of their shop as of next month.

A new policy introduced by Reading Borough Council, due to take effect as of July 1, is aiming to cut down on obstruction to pedestrians, particularly in areas where the boards are too large for the walkways.

There will be a £60 fee for the first year and £50 thereafter to cover council costs.

Businesses displaying an A-board without a licence will be given 28 days to apply and will have their A-boards removed if they ignore the council.

Councillor Tony Page, lead member for Strategic Environment, Planning and Transport, said: “The Council appreciates and understands businesses need to promote their services, but this has to be done with consideration for pedestrians and the surrounding environment.

“There are currently a large number of A-boards on footways and verges across the borough which can cause considerable inconvenience and danger to pedestrians and the Council often receives complaints about them.

"Some of the boards are very big and completely inappropriate for their location.

“The new licensing scheme aims to strike the right balance to allow businesses to continue to advertise their services while keeping the highway clear for everyone.”

The licensing scheme was approved by the council's Strategic Environment, Planning and Transport Committee on April 4.

Businesses can apply for an A-board licence by visiting: http://www.reading.gov.uk/licensing or can contact highways.licensing@reading.gov.uk for further information.