A 20ft taxi banner in Dundee initially believed to have been stolen was removed over safety fears, the council has revealed.
CityCabs 450450 issued a public appeal on Tuesday for its safe recovery following its disappearance near Riverside Avenue.
The firm had been so confused by the incident, bosses offered up a £100 reward for its safe return.
The local authority however has since confirmed it pulled-down the “unauthorised” banner amid fears it could be a “distraction” for road users.
CityCabs 450450 fleet director, Peter Marr Jnr, reiterated an agreement had been in place with the landlord to use the site at Dundee Technology Park.
Speaking to The Courier Peter said he was “happy” the banner had now been found.
However, he questioned the council’s claims that the signage could be a distraction, as the local authority sell advertising at “busy” roundabouts.
‘Advertising at circles around Dundee’
Peter said: “I’m happy the banner has been found, given it cost £1,500.
“There was an agreement in place with the landlord to use the wall.
“They were happy for us to install the banner.
“There had been a General Accident sign there previously and also a Norwich Union logo as well.
“The wall is also quite a distance away from the road surface.
“The council are selling advertising space at busy circles around Dundee.
“Surely it could be argued they (signs) also act as a distraction for motorists?”
A spokesman for Dundee City Council (DCC) said a letter had been issued to notify the taxi company that the sign was available for collection.
Peter said he was “disappointed” in the way the matter had been dealt with by DCC.
He added: “We’re obviously a new company and we’re trying to promote the business.
“If there was an issue with the banner the council could have just called and we would have removed the banner.
“We’ve gone back to the landlord to discuss the matter further to establish who owns the wall.”
‘Alternative advertising methods’
A spokesman said: “Dundee City Council removed this banner.
“It is available for collection by CityCabs (450450) and we have written to them to notify of this.
“Unauthorised banners such as these facing a major road can cause a distraction to road users.
“If a commercial company wishes to advertise then they are required to go through the formal planning process for advertising consent.
“Alternative advertising methods that are not potentially distracting to road users are available including local newspapers, local radio and social media.”
Conversation