Impresario says hoarding space deal is unfair LOCAL entertainment promoters claim a council monopoly on publicity billboards across the district is giving the authority an unfair advantage.

Dozens of signs on lampposts and banners at key locations currently advertise shows and gigs at council-run and council-supported venues like the Platform and the Dukes.

But private promoters like Simon Armstrong at the Dome claim they are denied the same space to advertise their attractions.

"We're not even allowed to pay to advertise on any of the council's billboards," said Mr Armstrong, who is currently promoting the summer season at the Dome.

"As you drive into Lancaster or Morecambe there are loads of billboards attached to the lampposts which tell you what's going on at council-supported venues. But a guy who put up a couple of signs to advertise his computer fair was prosecuted recently. It's OK to drape huge banners across roundabouts or public buildings if you are connected with the council but its not OK for anyone in the private sector. It's unfair."

Mr Armstrong added: "We are trying to attract visitors to the district just like the council. We want to bring more people into Morecambe and luckily we do well despite them but I can't see why they won't let others have some of the space."

A town hall spokesman said that the Dome were entitled to use the advertising placards but that they were booked up many months in advance.

Following inquiries from the Citizen the council said: "Our Arts and Events Service, who manage the sites, will contact the management of the Dome to see if there are any arrangements which can be made for advanced bookings for the advertising spaces."

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