MEMBERS OF Abergavenny Business Club have said they are adamantly opposed to MCC proposals to charge for street advertising as well as outdoor seating and pitches.

The proposals from MCC would see an initial charge of £75 followed by an annual charge of £50 for "A" Boards, and charges of anywhere between £120 to £360 for outdoor seating areas depending on size following an initial charges of £125.

In addition to this, the council also proposes charging £50 per site application for pitches such as stalls and gazebos, with initial charges of £75.

The Abergavenny Business Club is adamantly opposed to the charges, and has said the prices proposed are extortionate and penalise smaller businesses, which make up a high percentage of the total business in the town.

The group has warned that Abergavenny is known as a 'food town' and that the outdoor tables and chairs create this vibe, and to charge for this would be 'the straw which broke the camel's back'.

The business club is also concerned about the changes to charges for display boards and signs which MCC says is a new initiative that will provide advertising opportunities for local businesses.

Club officers warn however that the charges are so high that only larger chain stores and food retailers will benefit from this scheme.

With signs of 750mm x 450mm on highway verges and car park locations the cost estimate is believed to be between £1,000 and £1,500 based on vehicle movements and car park usage.

A spokesperson for MCC said that no decision has been made yet, and the council is seeking advice from interested parties.

He said, "The proposals to charge for street furniture and static advertising are just that - proposals,  and no recommendations have been made to members as yet.

"We are seeking the views of community and town councils, organisations representing groups such as the visually impaired, chambers of commerce and other organisations that might have a particular interest in the subject.

"The proposals were among those raised at budget consultation sessions but no detailed policies have yet been prepared or agreed.

"Once we have received the views of interested parties these will be considered alongside the original proposals at the council's Strong Communities Select Committee after which cabinet will make a decision taking account of points made within the consultation process."