Decluttering local streets and roads - borough ahead of the game

Roads and streets throughout the Royal Borough have been 'decluttered' over the past three years - putting the borough well ahead of this week's government call to local councils to root out unnecessary signage.

Communities secretary Eric Pickles urged councils to get rid of unnecessary signs, railings and advertising hoardings in a bid to make streets tidier and less confusing for motorists and pedestrians.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for highways and streetcare, welcomed the move and pointed to the Royal Borough's pioneering initiative which has seen 350 signs removed since 2008.

He said: "I am delighted the government is urging councils across the country to take this sensible approach to tidying up the environment and making roads safer. I would also hope that the government will use this opportunity to relax the legislation that calls for some of the signs to be in place.

"We have been decluttering the borough with great success for the past three years and have had a very positive response from local people who appreciate tidier and much less confusing roads and streets.

"Our streetcare service carries out routine safety inspections on the entire local roads network, part of which is to identify areas where further decluttering can be done - and of course we welcome suggestions from residents. If there are any areas where residents or parish councils feel decluttering would be beneficial they should let us know."

Cllr Rayner added: "In taking away the superfluous signs, we have been mindful of the safety of road users and pedestrians alike. We have not removed any sign which is necessary for the protection of the public."

The council would like to hear from residents who have suggestions for decluttering. They are invited to email streetcare at streetcare@rbwm.gov.uk or call 01628 683800

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