Improved signage is needed on the M5 motorway to promote Burnham-On-Sea as a tourist destination, town councillors have agreed at their latest meeting – however the huge costs have halted the plans.
Councillors considered a £34,000 proposal to install new brown tourist infromation signs north and south of Burnham-On-Sea’s junction 22.
Councillors are concerned that Cheddar Caves, Wookey Hole, Brean Leisure Park and Weston Pier are currently promoted, while Burnham does not get a mention as a tourist destination – only in the middle of the blue location sign.
The council’s Town Clerk, Tatiana Cant, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Weston and other local tourist attractions are mentioned on the signs at junction 22, while Burnham-On-Sea is not promoted at all.”
“We’ve therefore looked into getting new signs to promote Burnham through the Highways Agency, which oversees signs along motorways.”
“Councillors were shocked to hear that the cost would be £17,000 per sign – or £34,000 for a pair of signs both southbound and northbound.”
“The Highways Agency’s guidance is quite clear that we as applicants would have to foot the bill, so it was decided not to pursue this further at this time.”
She added: “We remain keen to see better sign-posting, along with Burnham Chamber of Trade, to try and attract more visitors into our town from the M5.”
Pictured: The signs at Burnham’s junction 22 of the M5 motorway which councillors feel don’t promote the town enough as a tourist destination
