A Brentford publican has criticised Hounslow Council after being told he must pay an annual £260 fee to keep an advertising board in his own beer garden. Scott Illman, who runs the Magpie and Crown on Brentford High Street, received a notice requiring a street trading licence because the board is within seven metres of the highway.
Mr Illman, 51, argues that the fee is unjust, particularly as his business has been affected by the nearby Brentford Project development, which is backed by the council. He said the works have obstructed rear access and caused noise and shadowing. The pub is on land owned by developer Ballymore.
“I’ve had hoardings around me since 2020 and at no point did anyone say ‘Here’s a discount on your business rates’,” he told MyLondon. He added that the board contains light-hearted messages to attract customers, and he has received no complaints from pedestrians or disability groups.
The crackdown comes as pubs face rising costs and closures. According to UKHospitality, an estimated 540 pubs could close by the end of the year. Mr Illman said the first three months of the year have been his quietest in seven years, and the licence fee adds to his financial strain.
A Hounslow Council spokesperson said the rule applies consistently across London to prevent obstructions and ensure public safety. They noted that businesses on private land within seven metres of the highway still require a licence for outdoor seating or marketing materials.
