Planners launch crackdown on illegal advertising on billboards

Their comments come after it was revealed that Downpatrick Planning Division were dealing with 120 enforcement files over the past two months regarding alleged unauthorised erection of signages, many on large advertising boards in fields along the MI Motorway and A1 Dual Carriageway.

Planners warned anyone who have not sought planning permission is liable to a fine which can go up by a further 250 for each day the unauthorised sign remains in place.

A spokesperson said: "Planning Service is unwilling to speculate as to the motives behind the erection of these signs. For its part, the Department is concerned about the recent proliferation of this type of signage, particularly alongside our major road network, their detrimental impact on the quality of our local environment and potential threat to road safety.

"Planning Service, in consultation with DRD Roads Service, has initiated a major exercise across each Planning Division to investigate alleged breaches of planning control in relation to unauthorised signage."

Planners said that they initially asked those responsible to voluntary remove unauthorised signage which has been successful.

The spokesperson continued: "The next step is to continue with enforcement action which can result in a formal court action and a possible summary conviction for breach of planning control.

"Any person considering erecting such a sign can write to their local divisional planning office for advice and guidance. They should provide full details of the proposal so that a response can be as constructive as possible."