TRADERS have slammed proposals which could see them pay to use an A-board outside their business.

City of York Council is considering a range of measures to limit their use on York's streets, including banning them altogether.

The authority has also revealed it may introduce a fee payable by the traders who want to use them, putting in place an annual application process or only allowing them if a licence is granted.

Officers are developing a new policy, which would involve consulting with the public, businesses and the RNIB, Guide Dogs and the York Blind and Partially Sighted Society.

The row over the use of street advertising in York dates back to 2013 when a council survey found 150 were causing an obstruction.

Proposals to develop a new policy will be taken to the council's Executive on August 27, however, traders who use A-boards have already laid out their opposition to the proposals.

Jason Hawkins, licensee of four York pubs, including the Blue Boar and The Nags Head in Heworth, said banning A-boards would affect business.

"I agree there should be some control over how many A-boards are put out and where they are located but charging businesses is not necessarily the way forward," he said.

"We already pay high business rates in public houses and don't get a great deal in return.

"I would have them licensed and agree a position for them rather than have a fee."

Sue Hardie, owner of The Hairy Fig cafe, in Fossgate, added: "It's ridiculous to charge people for them.

"If there's space wide enough for a wheelchair or pushchair to get around then they are fine where they are because people can walk around them.

"If you are on Parliament Street or Coney Street you shouldn't be allowed one because you don't need them.

"I'm not in the city centre but it's easier for people to attract the footfall if they are.

"We are doing all we can to get people to walk down here."

Cllr Ian Gillies, executive member for Transport and Planning, said: “This has been a long-standing issue here in York so I welcome this further review and suggested consultation.

"We need to balance the impact of A-boards on the public with the livelihood of small businesses. We also need to ensure support is provided to help find alternative methods of advertising and that all relevant bodies are consulted."