Sudbury In Bloom demands restoration of sponsorship signs, over fears of income loss that could jeopardise group’s work
The sudden removal of sponsorship signs from Sudbury roundabouts has drawn the ire of a community group, which fears for its financial future unless they are restored.
Sudbury in Bloom has criticised Suffolk County Council for the removal of long-standing signs from roundabouts in the town, allegedly ‘without warning and consultation’.
For two decades, the voluntary group has maintained the signs on behalf of its business sponsors, which are the primary source of income to fund its ongoing work around Sudbury.
However, last Thursday the organisation reported the signs had been taken down, claiming that this was ‘sweeping away 20 years of practice’.
More than 150 people have now signed a petition calling for their urgent reinstatement, as well as a full apology from the county council.
Chris Storey, chairman of Sudbury in Bloom, said: “The removal of the long-standing signs put the future of Sudbury in Bloom in jeopardy.
“They are the voluntary group’s main source of funding, with local businesses sponsoring the volunteers’ work, maintaining many of the town’s floral displays.
“Sudbury can be proud of its achievements and its appearance. Its floral arrangements are loved by many locals and visitors.
“The loss of our marketing signs threaten the basis on which the town is maintained and public support for Sudbury in Bloom is sought to encourage community at the heart of the town.
“Total income of Sudbury in Bloom is around £6,000 per year and some sponsorship in kind.
“From this, Sudbury in Bloom buys materials to carry out work that, if fully costed, would probably amount to in the region of £30,000 per annum.
“Failure to restore our signs will, therefore, significantly impact the appearance and wellbeing of the town as a whole.”
The petition is also appealing to Suffolk County Council to grant a guaranteed exclusive licence to Sudbury in Bloom, to allow it to continue using the roundabouts for sponsorship.
A number of the group’s business sponsors, including McDonald’s and Howdens, have also voiced their support for the group’s plight.
Craig Newnes, franchisee for the Sudbury branch of McDonald’s, said: “We have worked with Sudbury in Bloom for several years now. We know quality and recognise it in them.
“We are very concerned for their future and support their request for the return of the signs.”
Suffolk County Council said the signs had been taken down due to a lack of clarity on who installed them.
The authority confirmed it would now engage with Sudbury in Bloom on a way forward, echoing the group’s plea for ‘a collaborative and supportive approach’.
A council spokesman said: “The signs were removed as it was initially unclear who had placed them there.
“We are arranging a meeting with the local councillors and Sudbury in Bloom to discuss roundabout sponsorship.”