On-street signage has been banned in Edinburgh as the city aims to become more accessible

A charity has welcomed the implementation of a street clutter ban in Edinburgh.

Councillors in the capital approved a ban of on-street advertising boards earlier this year in a bid to make the city’s streets more accessible.

The ban came into force today (Tuesday 5 November) and the council said that action will be taken against retailers who ignore the rules.

Transport and environment convener Lesley Macinnes said: "This is ultimately about opening up our streets for all members of society, creating welcoming, clutter-free spaces where people can move freely.

"We've heard from lots of different groups about the mobility issues caused by the presence of temporary, moveable structures such as advertising boards, so it's clear that action needs to be taken if we are to live in a truly equal, accessible city."

RNIB Scotland was one of the organisations that led the call for the ban, saying that signs on pavements present a risk to those who are visually impaired.

A spokesman for the charity said: "We very much welcome this move by the City of Edinburgh Council to help make the streets of the capital more accessible to visually impaired people.

"A vital element for any successful 21st Century city must be inclusivity.

"A city that is open and welcoming to everyone, residents and visitors, no matter what needs or disabilities they may have. This move is a big step in that direction."