Westminster Council’s plans to force estate agents to apply for permission to erect boards has caused widespread outrage and Propertymark has now waded into the argument, saying its members should be exempted.

As was reported in The Neg, the Council is currently consulting on extending its Regulation 7 Direction across the borough, which would mean estate agents would have to apply for permission to put up sales and lettings boards.

A balance required

Although Propertymark acknowledges the importance of preserving Westminster’s distinctive architectural heritage, it warns it must balance these considerations with the needs of property agents and the wider housing sector.

It says that requiring permission could cause unnecessary delays and has asked the council to explain how permissions will be granted and the timelines for the decision-making process, highlighting how the likely disruption means there should be an exemption for its members.

Effective solutions

The trade association has also offered to work with Westminster City Council to improve information sharing, promote best practices and enhance compliance standards across the city.

Propertymark says it is advocating ‘practical, fair, and effective solutions’ for both the local communities and the property industry and, if Westminster involves it in the process, it would ensure any extension of the Regulation 7 Direction achieves its objectives without hindering the housing market.