THERE is an ‘ongoing problem’ with people placing advertising boards in Launceston town square, a meeting heard last week.

Frances Nally, Launceston Town Council’s deputy town clerk, told the council’s planning committee that at a recent event, a member of the public with a pushchair ‘had to go out in the road’ because a sign had been placed on a crash barrier.

She said: “There is an ongoing problem with people putting advertising boards in the square. We have some persistent offenders.

“I take the boards back to the premises and advise they are not permitted. We have an agreement with Cornwall Council that says no advertising in the square.”

Cllr Rob Tremain said the agreement is that the town council maintains the square ‘on Cornwall Council’s behalf’.

He added: “We are told no boards on the square and that’s what we have to tell the shop people.

“Frances has had quite a lot of stick and she’s only carrying out instructions she has been given.”

Ms Nally said some time ago, she and a representative from Cornwall Council went to premises in the town to deliver leaflets regarding ‘unauthorised signs on the highway’.

She added: “We told places you can’t place boards in the square, full stop.”

Ms Nally said she will also raise the issue with the chamber of commerce.