IT is interesting to see yet another person (Letters, December 10) asking how Blackburn Council can justify the banning of 'A-boards,' after their own recent erection of the large sculpture on the Boulevard.

I have previously asked the same question in your columns, as, I have noticed, have a number of other readers.

However, I have yet to read a reply from the council. I and, I am sure, many other readers eagerly await the justification for this, that is if the council can supply one.

PAULINE VAUGHAN, Kumon Blackburn Maths Club, Higher Church Street, Blackburn.

FOOTNOTE: A Council spokesman said: "We are required to provide facilities such as street lights and bus shelters and we are also permitted to install other amenities such as public art.

The siting of these items is governed by a code of practice which is the result of negotiations with various bodies including blind and partially sighted groups and disabled access groups.

"The siting of obstructions by local traders falls outside the code of practice and is illegal. The Council has a duty to uphold the law and ensure that the highway is safe and clear at all times.

"Where accidents occur as a result of these obstructions, it is the council, not the shopkeeper, who is taken to court and any bill for damages must be paid for by Council Tax payers."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.