Setch antiques centre bosses browned off at delay to tourist sign policy debate

Bosses of a popular West Norfolk antiques centre have hit out after a debate on their call for a change in tourist sign policy was delayed.

Managers of the Warehouse Antiques and Collectables site at Setch have accused Norfolk County Council chiefs of showing a “shocking lack of regard for business” by putting the issue on hold.

But the authority insists councillors will discuss the matter at a March committee meeting.

Centre officials are seeking a change in the county council’s current policy, which restricts the use of brown tourist signs to attractions like theme parks, historic buildings, museums and zoos.

They say the authority’s stance is not consistent with wider national practice and argue a sign from the A10 will also help to improve public safety.

Last month, the council indicated it was prepared to consider ordering a review at a meeting of its environment, development and transport committee, scheduled for last Friday.

But agenda papers for that meeting showed it listed in plans for a subsequent session instead.

A council spokesman said after the session: “The committee agreed last Friday that a paper about brown tourist signs should come to committee in March.”

However, the Warehouse management said: “This is a shocking lack of regard for businesses.

“Let us not forget that there have been four serious accidents in the last four months along the stretch of road in question.

“We have in excess of 40,000 visitors a year visit our site, a brown tourist sign is universally recognized as a precursor to something of interest for everyone.

“This is especially prevalent during the tourist months, where the traffic is so busy this symbol helps strangers to the area and directs the traffic safely. What will it take for the council to act?”

The council previously indicated that any committee debate would look at whether to review the existing policy, rather than discussing whether to change it immediately.