16/02/11…Roundabout advertising decision a ‘St Valentine’s massacre’

AN OXFORDSHIRE campagne group has responded angrily to SODC’s decision on Monday (Feb 14) to continue with advertising on roundabouts – apparently in contravention of its own policies.

Michael Tyce, Chairman of the Thame District of CPRE Oxfordshire, said in a statement: ?In a St Valentine?s Day Massacre the District Council has blown away its own policies to protect the environment, the concept of Localism, road safety, and the interest of taxpayers in getting the best deal. This at a time when other Councils are acting to remove unlawful roundabout advertising which blights the environment, and responding to Government requests that they crack down on advertising clutter.”

He continued: “South Oxfordshire District Council decided to sign up for another five years of its contentious roundabout advertising scheme, despite strong objections from Thame Town Council (1) and almost all the other towns and parishes where roundabouts with advertising are situated (2). The District Council accepts that the scheme is also contrary to its own policies to protect the environment and a distraction to motorists and therefore a safety risk.(3).

“At the same meeting the District Council decided to renew the contract , which is worth