Trade down at Shropshire pub after A-board ban

A Shropshire pub has lost hundreds of pounds worth of business after the council removed one of its A-boards.

The Old Castle in Bridgnorth, a Punch leased venue, had historically always put a sign up 100 yards away on the high street to attract trade until it was taken away last Tuesday (29 June).

Licensee Bryn Masterman said trade has dropped at least 25% since then and he is losing around £100 a day in food sales, with drinks losses on top.

"We rely an awful lot on that A-board," said Masterman. "It does affect us. We've lost 20 covers or more every day and it's enough for us to think about cutting staff hours."

He plans to contact the council to arrange a meeting and speak to the owner of a sweet shop in nearby town Ludlow, who has started a campaign against the A-board rule.

Six weeks ago Masterman received a letter from the council stating that it wished to reduce the number of boards in Bridgnorth and Ludlow following concerns raised by the public.

Businesses were said to be allowed one A-board outside the premises with consideration given to requests for a second.

A council spokesman said: "A new pilot scheme was introduced in Ludlow and Bridgnorth in April this year to address concerns about A-boards obstructing the pavement, and about their impact on the appearance of the towns, whilst aiming to recognise the value that such boards play in promoting local businesses.

"Under the pilot A-board policy Shropshire Council reserves the right to remove A-boards, after giving prior notice to the board owner."

The pilot scheme could be rolled out across Shropshire.