LARGE banners celebrating the Olympics could become a permanent fixture to enable Redbridge Council to advertise its services.

The authority is seeking to retain 204 banners across the borough, including 40 in the conservation area of Wanstead High Street and others in George Lane in South Woodford.

Three people have so far formally objected to the proposal and more said they are preparing to challenge the move.

Bert Webster, 84, of Overton Drive, Wanstead, said: “Everywhere you go there would be a bright, garish sign. It would spoil the look of the high street. It’s almost propaganda for the council.”

Michael Powis, 71, of Grosvenor Road, added: “You give these guys half a chance and they ruin the place.

“It’s the silliest idea they’ve had so far, it would be a total eyesore.”

The Area One Committee approved the temporary banners for use during the London 2012 Games, but councillors on a planning committee will now decide whether to allow them to stay indefinitely.

Conservationists the Wanstead Society fear the move could set a dangerous precedent. Member Geoff Horsnell said: “The banners are a very slippery slope.

“Next thing there could be commercial advertising and then we have the whole area completely spoiled.

“The council shouldn’t be allowed to clutter the street with signs when it’s a place whose character is protected.”

But Judith Zimelstern, owner of women’s clothing store Judith of Wanstead, said she thought the two-metre long banners could help the high street.

“I think advertisements of local events might keep people coming to the area,” she said. “Anything that helps a little bit is very welcome.”

Tim Smith, owner of the Creative Biscuit Cafe, fears the banners may be used to generate income for the cash-strapped council.

“It’s the recession and it’s an easy way to attract advertisers. Nobody would be surprised if they used them for revenue,” he said.

A spokesman for Redbridge Council said: “We have applied for permanent planning permission and are still in the consultation period.

“These banners are a good way to provide information about community services and local events in a way that everyone can see.

“We have no plans to use these for commercial messages.”

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