The Secretary of State has now confirmed that "For sale" and "to let" boards should be brought under planning control within the central (residential) conservation areas of Brighton & Hove to enhance the areas.
 
The move will extend existing controls which already exist in a number of the city’s historic squares and which have done much to enhance the appearance of these conservation areas.
 
Councillor Geoffrey Theobald, cabinet member for environment, said:
“This is good news for our residents who have raised concerns with the council. Some of these streets have a high proportion of historic buildings converted to flats and bed sits which attract far too many estate agent boards.
 
“I am very pleased that the council’s proposal has been supported and I hope that estate agents will work in partnership with us to make sure the areas look their best, which is in everyone’s interest. Once the deadline for existing boards is reached and estate agents start to advertise new sales or lettings in different ways, residents should see an improvement in the appearance of these streets”.

Councillor Paul Elgood, leader of the Lib Dems said:
"I am delighted that the secretary of state has extended the control of estate agent's boards across Brunswick Town, as one of the city's most historic areas.

"This will hugely improve the appearance of the area and I am glad that the pleas of residents have finally been listened too after a ten year fight for action against this urban blight in the city's historic areas."
 
The new controls, which include much of the area between Seafield Road in Hove and Sussex Square in Brighton, will take effect in September.

For more information about Brighton and Hove Council view:
www.brighton-hove.gov.uk