Action on Estate Agent's Boards in historic areas

8.11.20pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 13th Oct 2004

NEW regulations will restrict the use of estate agents' 'For Sale' boards in some of the city's most historic streets and squares. The move comes as a result of concerns from residents about the way such boards harm the appearance of the finest formal squares and terraces in conservation areas.

From 22 October boards will not be permitted unless there are exceptional circumstances. Even then any board will have to fit in with the conservation area concerned. Failure to comply with the regulations could lead to a fine of up to £2,500.

The areas to be protected by the regulations are Adelaide Crescent, Palmeira Square, Brunswick Place, Brunswick Square, Brunswick Terrace, Arundel Terrace, Chichester Terrace, Lewes Crescent, Sussex Square, Montpelier Crescent, Vernon Terrace, 7 Rochester Mansions, 9-15 & 25-33 Palmeira Mansions and 17-23 Palmeira Avenue Mansions.

Councillor Paul Elgood represents the Brunswick and Adelaide ward in Hove, where many of the historic streets are situated. He said: "This will provide the opportunity for these important historic buildings to be shown in their very best light. Similar schemes have been successful in other historic cities such as Bath and this comes from a direct request by residents of these properties.

"Many of the buildings under the scheme are houses of multiple occupation and can often have two or three boards at a time outside them. It is a marketing opportunity for the local estate agents as well who can develop a specialism in historic buildings for potential buyers."