Lentswe, Klerksdorp - The Matlosana Municipality has started to rid the CBD from illegal signs. The MMC for Local Economic Development, Cllr Moagi Kodisang, supported by the communication and marketing unit, embarked on a campaign to eradicate illegal signs in the Klerksdorp CBD. They took to the streets on Tuesday March 19. According to Ntswaki Makgetha: AD Communication and Marketing, the municipality is committed to curbing illegal advertising in Matlosana.
“Many companies are utilising municipal land to illegally erect advertising signs or boards which are not installed in line with municipal by-laws and most do not possess public liability insurance that protects them financially from the potential costs of legal claims arising from their operations.
“These illegal advertisers are not coming forth to pay directly to the municipality or ask further information regarding outdoor advertising within the municipal area. Illegal structures pose a serious risk to the safety of the public and motorists passing by,” she said.
She added the said structures also rob the municipality of potential revenue, which could be used to address service delivery challenges. Businesses that engage in illegal advertising may gain an unfair competitive advantage over those that abide by the law, leading to market distortions.
During the illegal advertising campaign, Kodisang mentioned that the illegal advertising boards, particularly those placed in unauthorized locations or without proper structural integrity, can pose safety hazards to the public. They may obstruct visibility for drivers, block sidewalks or emergency exits, or even collapse, causing injury or property damage.
“It is essential for advertisers to adhere to the laws and regulations governing advertising practices in Matlosana. This includes obtaining necessary permits, respecting zoning regulations, and ensuring that advertising materials comply with relevant standards for safety,” Kodisang said.
Illegal boards that have been removed are from the following streets: Joe Slovo road, Bram Fischer Street, Church Street and Anderson Street.”
They warned that continuing to engage in illegal advertising activities may have severe consequences, including financial liabilities.
“The municipality strongly urges all businesses involved to take immediate action to rectify the situation by removing all illegal advertisements and refraining from any further unauthorized advertising activities.”
