TRADERS in the Ascot area are worried they will lose vital business as a result of a borough-wide ban on A-boards.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM) decided to ban A-frame advertising boards on public highways and pavements three years ago, on the grounds that they were making streets difficult for pedestrians to navigate.

But the legislation is now only starting to bite businesses who cannot renew their existing A-board licences.

All other types of advertising board are also affected by the changes.

Paul Malone, manager at Lewis butchers in Sunningdale, accused RBWM of “killing” small traders.

He said: “After the crash of 2008 the council wavered licence payments for small businesses because business was so tough.

“But now RBWM have decided there will not be any A-boards, with no explanation. They won’t let us buy a licence, which doesn’t seem right when tables and chairs at the café nearby are more of a hazard.

“RBWM are killing small businesses. There are more and more empty shops which you never see in Sunningdale.”

Mr Malone, 50, was adamant the new measure would have a big impact, though he could not put a figure on it.

“The council should see how the businesses are struggling and help them pick up trade,” he added.

Morgan Nuth, who runs Old Oak Floral Designers on Ascot High Street, described the ban as ‘crazy’.

He said: “The council should be doing stuff to help and promote more business, especially on a High Street like Ascot’s which is so unique.

“I understand why they are doing it on very narrow pavements, but a blanket ban is crazy.”

Cllr Phillip Bicknell, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “We know this is a sensitive issue but it is important for us to balance the needs of both pedestrians and businesses.

“Comments from both sides will be listened to and we will continue to monitor the situation.”

A spokesman for the Royal Borough said: “While we are sympathetic to the need for local businesses to increase their trade we must ensure that our borough remains accessible to everyone.

“No new licences for advertising boards were issued after September 2013. Now the last of those licences has expired the ban is in full effect.”