Community · Chippenham
Circus operator warned on sign rules after 200 posters removed in Chippenham
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
A travelling circus operator has lost hundreds of promotional posters after they were removed for breaching Wiltshire Council signage regulations in Chippenham town centre.
A travelling circus has seen hundreds of its marketing posters removed by local authorities, prompting a fresh warning from Wiltshire Council regarding the rules for advertising events on public land.
Patrick Austin, owner of Circus Ginnet, reported that 200 of his posters were taken down by officials in Chippenham last week. Mr Austin described the loss as a significant financial blow, noting that the materials represented hundreds of pounds in costs alongside the lost promotional opportunity for the circus.
The removal follows the introduction of the council's Trusted Billposters Scheme in April, which was designed to regulate the placement of temporary signage after a crackdown on unauthorised flyposting. The scheme was introduced following feedback from community groups and local events that had previously relied on roadside advertising.
David Bullock, director for highways at Wiltshire Council, clarified the rules for event organisers. He stated that temporary event signs do not require prior permission provided they comply with the council’s published guidelines for placement on the highway. However, he confirmed that in this instance, the posters had been attached to bollards, traffic signals and existing road signs in Chippenham town centre, which is strictly prohibited.
The council confirmed that the materials were removed by Chippenham Town Council following the breach. Officials are now urging organisers of fetes, fairs, and other community events to verify the specific requirements for signage with Wiltshire Council before deploying any marketing materials on public property.
Despite the setback, Circus Ginnet is scheduled to continue its tour in the region, with performances planned for Trowbridge from September 16 to 20 and Melksham from September 23 to 27.
Source: Swindon Advertiser - Politics · View original