A local theatre company has urged Central Bedfordshire Council to reconsider its rules on advertising banners, arguing that the current restrictions could jeopardise its financial stability. The Leighton Buzzard Drama Group (LBDG) has long relied on banners to promote its shows, but new enforcement measures threaten that practice. The group says these changes could have serious consequences for community theatre and cultural life in the town, highlighting growing frustration over Leighton Buzzard banner restrictions.
The dispute began when community organisations were informed by the council that banners fixed to railings or lampposts without permission could lead to prosecution under the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2006. The message, sent in July, made clear that any unauthorised displays would have to be taken down and that future breaches might trigger formal action.
For LBDG, which stages four productions each year, the move came as a major setback. The group’s annual pantomime is its financial mainstay, typically running for three weeks and drawing audiences from across the region. Without strong promotion, members fear the show’s success could be in danger.
Russell Bennett, a member of the drama group’s committee, explained the importance of the pantomime. “It’s absolutely critical,” he said. “The plays that we do during the year only run for three performances, so if you can make one of those shows break even, you’ve had a great show. Historically, it’s always been the pantomime, where we do 15 shows, that’s funded the group for the rest of the year.”
Previously, Mr Bennett said, there had been “a gentleman’s agreement” that allowed banners to be displayed for short periods around showtime. That informal arrangement now appears to have been replaced by stricter enforcement. “We’re now operating against the backdrop of the threat of a fine,” he said.
The restrictions do not only affect the drama group. The Leighton Buzzard Art Society reported being told that banners would require a formal planning application, including a fee for each display. For voluntary organisations with limited budgets, that requirement could make local advertising unfeasible.
The policy has prompted questions from local representatives. Independent councillor Victoria Harvey raised the matter at a council meeting, and the authority has now agreed to refer the issue to its Executive for review. Community groups hope this signals a willingness to revisit what many view as excessive bureaucracy.
For those involved in the town’s cultural life, banners are more than just a promotional tool. They are a vital connection with the local public. Kim Aguilar, director of this year’s pantomime, emphasised their importance. “It’s so important for us to be able to advertise,” she said. “You get cars passing these banners that you wouldn’t normally be able to reach. If our panto doesn’t sell, if we were to lose money on our pantomime, that would be really hard for us.”
The council has yet to issue a full response but confirmed that its policy on public banners and signage is under review. A spokesperson acknowledged that the rules were designed to manage public spaces and safety, but that community organisations’ concerns would be considered as part of the process.
For LBDG, the outcome of that review will determine whether its performances can continue to thrive. Without the visibility provided by its banners, the group fears it may struggle to attract the audiences it needs to stay afloat.
The dispute over Leighton Buzzard banner restrictions has highlighted the broader challenge of balancing local regulation with the needs of community culture. As the review progresses, many residents hope that the council will find a compromise that supports creativity without compromising public order. For now, the drama group’s future advertising remains under a cloud, but the stage is set for further debate over how the town promotes its cultural identity.
