A MAJOR crackdown is planned against shopkeepers who clutter the pavement with illegal signs.

The clampdown will take place across the county and follows similar purges in Hyndburn and Rossendale.

The county council has decided to act after floods of complaints from the public about signs and advertising boards blocking pavements.

Shopkeepers will be told to remove any illegal signs and could face court action if they ignore the warning. The move has won the support of charities working with blind and disabled people.

Groups backing the initiative include the Disabled Drivers Association, the National Federation of the Blind, the Pedestrians Association and Guide Dogs for the Blind. The major driving organisations are also in full support. The controversial move was announced by highways and transportation chairman Richard Toon.

He said: "We have become increasingly concerned at the extent of unauthorised advertising, direction and goods for sale signs on the highway.

"They can distract drivers and obstruct pedestrians causing problems for disabled, blind or partially sighted people as well as those with prams."

Coun Toon added: "Obstructions and unauthorised signs are illegal and those responsible can be prosecuted.

"However, Lancashire County Council would prefer to increase awareness of the problem and encourage businesses to remove the items or consider alternatives.

"In pedestrianised areas, permanent signs on the highway can be authorised as long as they meet council standards as can pavement cafes, which often enhance town centres."

Lancashire police will target motorists who illegally park on pavements.

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