IN the current economic climate, debating the pros and cons of estate agent advertising boards would appear to be a little trite and petty (Courier, last week). Nonetheless, visual imposition is something that affects us all to varying degrees and I would classify such boards as constituting an unnecessary assault on the eye.
The council's decision in this particular instance is a brave and correct act as the signs clearly debase the beauty of the building they frame.
However, this ruling brings to the forefront the general issue of property advertising boards and the
ir use.
While estate agents do not need kicking when they are suffering the ebb and flow of the market, the proliferation of 'for sale' signs displayed from every conceivable location has created a familiar sight in towns, cities and countryside - but for whose benefit?
If you are shopping for a house, which excludes most people at the moment, the first port of call will often be the internet. There are a number of excellent sities providing online access to properties across the country linked to the originating estate agent.
There are also national and local papers such as the Courier that provide access to property advertising.
Then there is always the telephone if you need to make contact direct.
If estate agent boards were to be outlawed would it have a negative effect on business? I think not. Indeed, this technique has been used for so long its effectiveness is never questioned.
With access to technology and media advertising there is no reason to justify boards anymore. Boards represent an old fashioned, outdated and unnecessary marketing approach used at the expense of the rest of society. They spoil our buildings, desecrate our countryside and add nothing other than the free promotion of the proprietor's shop.
I call for a national review on the use of estate agent advertising boards. Let's take them down. - Steve Blann, Claverdon (email address supplied).
