Roundabouts across South Lanarkshire are to be sponsored in a 12-month pilot project.

The sponsorship signage will be a controlled size, with the sponsors text and logo mounted within a frame bearing the South Lanarkshire Council logo.

Money raised initially will help improve the roundabouts, for example enhanced landscaping, improved road markings and signage.

Road safety will be a key consideration for any proposal and the signs will therefore be modest, in keeping with the location and designed to minimise driver distraction.

Planning consent for each location will be required and all signs will be vetted to ensure there is no risk to the reputation of the Council and the content on signs near schools, hospitals and cemeteries will be considered carefully.

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Signs with contact details for interested parties will be erected at the roundabouts we are considering for the pilot.

Chair of South Lanarkshire Council's Enterprise Resources Committee, Councillor Chris Thompson, said: "This could be an excellent way of bringing in extra revenue for the Council - the amount generated will depend upon the amount of sponsorship secured and the availability of appropriate sites.

"One of the biggest considerations has to be road safety, but we will ensure the signs do not cause distraction to drivers or detract from the traffic signs already in place.

"We anticipate that the money generated will go towards improving roads infrastructure and road safety, although given the current economic climate, the scheme may take some time to establish and grow."

Cllr Thompson hopes local companies and organisations will recognise the opportunity to generate additional business through sponsorship in prominent locations.

If the pilot scheme is successful it is expected the sponsorship agreements will continue, possibly at other roundabouts as well as those listed.

The agreements could be negotiated for a minimum of three years and a maximum of five years, depending on the location.

(GK/JM)