OFFICERS are clamping down on dangerous and illegal road signs across Blaenau Gwent.

In a recent survey of borough's roads, Blaenau Gwent council found 190 lawbreaking signs had been put along public highways without permission.

A spokesperson for Blaenau Gwent council said the number of illegal signs in the borough is increasing and that "unauthorised advertising is causing serious road safety hazards."

It is illegal to paint or fix any picture, letter or sign on or alongside a highway or on any tree.

From this month anyone displaying an unauthorised sign will be issued with a warning letter giving them seven days notice to remove the material.

If the sign is not removed, the council will charge offenders for the cost of the removal.

Persistent offenders may face legal proceedings, and the possibility of a fine.

  • To apply for permission to advertise near the highway, write to Paul Gray, Streetworks Manager, Environment Directorate, Central Depot, Barleyfield Industrial Estate, Brynmawr, NP23 4YF.