Deputation to Transport and Environment Committee, 10 September 2026 by the Living Streets Edinburgh Group

Item 7.3: Petition for Consideration – Make Edinburgh Tables and Chairs Charges Fair and Introduce Licensed A Boards for Local Businesses

Living Streets Edinburgh Group is the local voluntary arm of the national charity, Living Streets, which campaigns for better conditions for everyday walking and wheeling.

‘Pavement clutter’ is a significant problem on Edinburgh streets, with trade waste bins, roadworks debris and overhanging hedges among the many problems that pedestrians face on a daily basis. As so often, it is blind, older and less mobile pedestrians who are worst affected by obstructions encountered on the pavement. We regularly highlight these problems, for example: https://www.livingstreetsedinburgh.org.uk/2020/12/11/cut-the-pavement-clutter/.

We therefore strongly oppose the request in the petition that advertising ‘A-boards’ should once again be permitted, under licence, on city streets.  We played a leading role in persuading the Council to introduce the ban on A-boards and other temporary advertising structures in 2019. We urge councillors to maintain the ban, which the Council has by and large enforced well, adopting a consistent and fair approach for all businesses.

We agree with the petitioners that outdoor seating can bring life to streets and we have no objection to ‘tables and chairs’ on the pavement in principle. However it is essential that  they leave adequate space for pedestrians and follow Council’s guidance on their layout. This means effective management and where required enforcement by Council officers. We have no comment as to whether or not the level of fees charged for permits is reasonable.

David Hunter

Convener

August 2026