Some of the most beautiful squares and terraces in Britain are in the city of Brighton and Hove.

Great efforts are made by the residents and the city council to keep them splendid, often by ensuring they are painted all the same colour at the same time.

But some of these streets are blighted by a rash of inappropriate boards planted by estate agents.

There has been a voluntary code of conduct for years to keep the boards down to one per property.

But rogue agents have broken the agreement and ensured some buildings are festooned with boards.

Now the city council is considering applying a ban on boards by the best buildings. Agents who want boards badly will have to spend time and money on applying for planning consent.

It's a good idea and it's backed by most agents. If it works, these lovely lines of houses will be back to their best.