Merton Council is pushing for the removal of unsightly advertising hoardings in Raynes Park as part of its enhancement plan for the town centre, launched earlier this year. The council has served notices on hoardings owner Primesight, demanding the removal of the boards by the end of February 2010.

Merton is taking action in response to residents’ concerns about the 16 unsightly hoardings along the main roads around Raynes Park Station. Their removal is just one initiative in the council’s £80,000 Raynes Park Enhancement Plan to steer both public and private investment into the area and help improve the overall appearance of Raynes Park.

Merton Council cabinet member for planning and traffic management Councillor William Brierly said: ‘We always work to put our residents first and listen to their views about where they live. Many local people in Raynes Park feel that the hoardings are too dominant and look tatty and worn, making the area appear uncared for. We recognise the cumulative harmful effect these hoardings are having on our town centre. Removing them will certainly improve the appearance of Raynes Park, which is valued highly by the residents who live there. This latest action shows the council is not afraid to take formal action when necessary in the interests of our community.’

Information on Raynes Park and the enhancement plan can be found at http://www.merton.gov.uk/raynespark

-ENDS-