SPONSORSHIP of Dorset roundabouts has received further criticism from Dorchester town councillors.

Last week the Echo reported concerns from local residents and county councillors about the county council’s decision to let businesses advertise on roundabouts in a bid to raise up to £100,000. At a meeting of Dorchester Town Council ’s planning and environment committee members also spoke out against the move.

Councillors said the town council maintained a number of roundabouts in the town and would continue to do so, therefore companies would be paying purely for advertising rather than sponsoring or maintaining the roundabouts.

Coun Susie Hosford said: “We as a town council are spending a lot of money to make these roundabouts a pleasant entrance to the town.”

Coun Robin Potter added: “I think they are selling advertising space rather than sponsorship of the roundabout.”

Coun Stella Jones also expressed concerns over whether the advertising signs would need planning permission. There was some defence of the move by Coun Richard Biggs, who is also a member of the county council.

He said: “Money that they get from sponsorship will be used back in highways.”

Members agreed to write to the county council expressing their opposition to the idea.