A BOARDS, fly posters and banners are being banned in parts of Upton in a bid to prevent the town from becoming a mess.

Members of Upton Town Council have discussed the issue and agreed to remove all promotional material around the historic Pepperpot and nearby roundabout, particular areas of concern.

They also agreed the council should formulate a clear and enforceable policy so the situation can be monitored.

Coun Mary Lismore said: “It says on the way into Upton that you are entering a historic market town, but it won’t look like that for long if we keep having the free for all we are at the moment.

“I think we need to be very careful to preserve the historic aspect of this town as that brings visitors in.”

Deputy mayor Paul Bennett agreed there needed to be controls but added: “It would be a real shame if some of the vibrancy and advertising of all the good things that go on were suddenly to come down.”

It was agreed to ask Malvern Hills District Council ’s street scene team to remove any boards from the Pepperpot and roundabout, and for discussions with traders to take place before establishing a set of rules and regulations.

Town clerk Jo Adams said: “We need to have a clear policy on what is acceptable so that we can make it happen.”

The decision has been welcomed by Annette Keyworth, chairman of Upton Tourism and Trade Association, who attended the meeting.

“The area by the Pepperpot can be a bit of an eyesore and I think that the traders will generally be happy with what was decided,” she said.

“The issue of street furniture and advertising is a delicate one and I welcome the council’s approach and look forward to working closely with them on it.”