THE growing number of pavement advertising boards is turning Bridport town centre into a dangerous obstacle course, officials have complained.

They say the streets are becoming so cluttered with the illegal signs that pedestrians are tripping over them and mobility scooter users are often brought to a halt.

Now town and county councillor Karl Wallace has called on the highways authority to order a crackdown – and warns a complete ban on A-boards could follow if traders don’t co-operate.

“It is just getting ridiculous,” he said. “Some of the signs are being placed right in the middle of the pavement. I have received a number of complaints from people who have injured themselves tripping over the A-boards.

“It is becoming an obstacle course for people – and it is especially difficult for those with mobility problems.

“I have no problem with people wanting to promote their businesses but they have got to be sensible – two or three businesses have had up to four boards, which is too much. At this rate we’ll end up with A-boards promoting companies that make A-boards.

“I have asked the county council to review the situation and see what can be done to address this and get a reduction.

“What will happen if the system continues to be abused is they will say no one can have them at all – so they need to be careful.”

Bridport chamber of commerce president Mike Harvey said the use of A-boards and other signage was a fundamental part of any shopkeeper’s efforts to attract potential customers into their premises. He said: “This form of advertising is essential in informing members of the public what is available in the town at any particular time, especially when offers are available.

“The County Council as the highway authority, have usually been understanding and flexible with regard to on-pavement advertising and tables and chairs and if a problem is developing we would be happy to meet with them. To simply sweep them all away would not be in anyone’s interest.”

The highways department official dealing with the complaint was on leave this week and unavailable to comment. But a spokesman at the county council said he understood businesses had been contacted about the proliferation of A- boards and asked to remove some of them.

He confirmed that the county council does not licence A-boards.