Businesses have been warned their local council is getting tough over illegal advertising signs.
A total of 23 shops and offices in Witney were given a 48-hour final warning to remove A-boards from the pavements outside their premises. Two days later the West Oxfordshire District Council environmental enforcement team seized three and took them away either for destruction or maximum £110 return fee.
Firms displaying again after being warned face prosecution. The blitz follows letters sent out last year to 200 businesses and Witney Chamber of Trade.
David Harvey, council cabinet member for the environment, said: "Boards in the wrong place on the pavement are a nuisance and can be a significant safety hazard to people with poor eyesight."
Under section 149 of the Highways Act 1980, the council has the power to remove anything considered to be a nuisance or danger.
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