Minister calls for action on eyesores

CIVIC leaders have claimed more needs to be done to eradicate traffic signs which are blighting the panoramas of Britain’s historic cities.

The Government highlighted work to remove eyesores from York’s streets after Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin wrote to local authorities urging them to undertake reviews of traffic signs. York Council undertook an audit and removed signs unless there was a clear need for them. The £1,000 pilot is expected to pay for itself in less than four years through reduced maintenance and energy costs.

The Reinvigorate York project’s chairman, Sir Ron Cooke, admitted there are still “plenty of opportunities” to improve York’s appearance, but added: “The Department for Transport has finally recognised what York has been arguing for some years - that traffic signs, especially in pedestrianised areas, blight the enjoyment and safety of heritage cities like York.”

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While York is famed for its heritage, concerns have been expressed about the state of the city centre. The York Civic Trust has spearheaded a campaign to remove clutter and repair unkempt lamp posts and signs.

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