Council plans to curb use of letting boards

A council is set to revive limitations on letting boards across several residential areas after complaints from residents.

Nottingham City Council says complaints have also been made by community groups and local councillors over the proliferation of signs.

The areas where a ban is being considered includes Hyson Green and Arboretum, Lenton and Wollaton East, and Radford.

Complainants say the lettings boards detract from the aesthetic appeal of these neighbourhoods.

While the reapplication is in progress, the council is encouraging landlords and agents to voluntarily comply with the former guidelines.

Reintroduction of lettings board ban

The council’s executive member for housing and planning, Councillor Jay Hayes, said: “I encourage residents to share their views on the proposed reintroduction of letting boards restrictions.

“By reinstating these restrictions, we aim to protect our communities’ character while working constructively with landlords and letting agents.”

The proposed measures aim to reinstate controls which lapsed in 2023, with the council intending to seek approval from the Secretary of State for a fresh directive.

This follows a similar effort in 2011, when concerns about the visual impact of letting boards prompted the council to designate nine zones.

That’s when the boards needed permission, unless they met stringent design standards.

The council published a guide to assist landlords to meet these requirements.

Reinstate boards ban

With the previous restrictions no longer in place, the council now wants the ban reinstated to include new housing developments.

The new proposal extends the duration of these controls to a decade, reflecting a long-term commitment to preserving local character.

To ensure a comprehensive approach, the council has launched a public consultation, inviting input from residents and landlords.

It also wants to hear from students, letting agents, community organisations, universities and student unions.

If the plan is approved there could be enforcement action to remove non-compliant signage.

The consultation period ends on Tuesday 20 May and there’s more information on the council website.

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