BUSINESS owners are being reminded to keep A-boards within one metre of their buildings to prevent accidents and injuries to pedestrians.

The Central Monmouthshire Area Committee met last Wednesday (11th December) where the incorrect positioning of A-boards was discussed.

Monmouth town councillor Terry Christopher said: "Leaving A-boards across the pavement in the manner many Monmouth businesses do, is illegal.

"The positioning doesn't comply with the by-laws and this has been going on for quite some time.

"It's dangerous to leave A-boards out in the pavement as people can easily have an accident. There's also the question of insurance, who would someone sue if they injured themselves?

"A few years ago the council sent people to take away A-boards that didn't comply with the by-laws. I'd like to engage with Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) to manage the problems with A-boards."

Councillor Bob Hayward said: "Everyone knows it's illegal but nothing is ever done to prevent the positioning of the A-boards.

"I know we are well within our rights to pick up the A-boards and move them, so we either have to reinforce the by-law or have people not care about how they place their boards."

Cabinet member Liz Hackett-Pain said: "The A-boards are a nuisance and a hazard to all walks of life. They are an accident waiting to happen."

Councillors agreed to invite Roger Hoggins, head of the highways department at MCC, and a representative from the Chamber of Commerce, to discuss the by-laws related to A-boards.