WYCHAVON District Council is appealing to residents to speak up before putting up signage so they don’t fall foul of the law.

This follows a case recently when a man who knowingly flouted planning laws pleaded guilty at Worcester Magistrates Court on Thursday, November 24 to displaying two illegal advertisement signs in the Green Belt in a case that rumbled on for over a year.

Graeme Duerden, development control manager for the authority, said: “We don’t like taking residents to court and want to work with people to help them with the planning process. Anyone who wishes to advertise their business and display signage and who would like some advice, can either contact us on 01386 565565 or email planning@wychavon.gov.uk However, those who ignore advice and flout planning legislation will have action taken against them.”

Mr Tim Dunkley, 45, of Greenfields Farm, Worcester Road, Upton Warren, pleaded guilty to the unauthorised display of two advertisement signs at Greenfields Farm in an area situated in the Green Belt.

Following an investigation by Wychavon District Council, Mr Dunkley submitted retrospective advertisement applications to Wychavon for the retention of the illegal signs. The applications were refused as the signs were considered to be visually detrimental to the character and appearance of the Green Belt. Mr Dunkley appealed but that was dismissed by the Planning Inspectorate.

Mr Dunkley was fined £500 for the display of the illegal signs with £500 costs awarded to Wychavon District Council. A £15 victim charge was also levied.