Since November, a citywide ban on ‘A’ boards and other temporary adverts has been in force. This is primarily to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility on our streets. It is part of wider efforts to help create a more welcoming, clutter-free city for everyone.
Environmental Wardens are working closely with businesses and are reporting good results across the city. Businesses have adapted to the ban in a variety of ways, including by incorporating advertising into barriers around tables and chairs (for which they have a licence) or putting a sign on their walls or windows (if allowed).
There are lots of places to go for businesses looking for more information on advertising or guidance to help them through this ongoing change;
- A page on the Councils website which includes general guidance on advertising for businesses, listed buildings and Conservation Areas
- Business Gateway provide free support and advice to start-ups and existing businesses
- Edinburgh World Heritage has produced guidance on how to showcase your shopfrontand information about grants for properties within the World Heritage Site
- Historic Environment Scotland has guidance on shopfront and signage design
As you can see from our photo gallery above, removing A-Boards can help make a huge difference for people with mobility issues getting around Edinburgh. By removing barriers on our pavements, it is hoped that people can move more freely across the city and businesses will feel the benefit from shoppers attracted by better pavements.
If you wish to report any A-Boards which you feel should be looked at by an Environmental Warden, please email us at aboards@edinburgh.gov.uk.
Planning Edinburgh 
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