City gets tough over 'printed graffiti' posters

 

Andrew Robinson
PROMOTERS who put up posters publicising parties and other events will be prosecuted and fined, Leeds Council will warn today.
The council, which has dubbed the posters "printed graffiti", has decided to boost the powers of its clean-up teams to rid the city of the poster pest once and for all.
Promoters will face fines and clubs could even lose their licences.
The council is now invoking a series of hard-hitting legal powers that could lead to:
n Anti-social behaviour orders for persistent offenders;
n Fines of up to £1,000, plus £100 for every day the poster stays up after conviction;
n And details of offences being taken into account in licensing applications.
The tough new policy, aimed at wiping out illegal flyposting in Leeds, is being launched today.
Coun David Morton, executive member for city services, said: "Leeds is an extremely attractive city and we are doing everything we can to keep it that way.
"However, there is a minority who continue to commit flyposting offences. Illegal flyposting is essentially printed graffiti. It is scruffy, an eyesore and it spoils our street scene.
"We work hard to ensure our city is clean, pleasant and tidy for everyone. Those people who continue to flypost will be tracked down and prosecuted."
Flyposting in Leeds is generally used to promote local events, the majority of which are held on licensed premises. There is also a smaller number of posters advertising shops or specific goods for sale.
The new policy will cover posting on street furniture, structures and buildings. It will apply to all property, including private property unless the owner has sanctioned the display and obtained the relevant planning permission.
Legal flyposting on "drums" and official boards will be unaffected.
Licensees in Leeds have been warned about the clampdown. The council will target its enforcement action against the most persistent offenders.
People who put advertising stickers on traffic lights and lampposts also face prosecution.