Midlothian planners reject plans for Gorebridge Pharmacy sign despite approving same one down the road

The pharmacy applied for planning permission to put new illuminated signs above its shops.

Planners refused to grant permission for a new chemist sign in a village after describing it as ‘unappealing’ despite approving the same sign for a second shop half a mile along the road.

Gorebridge Pharmacy applied for planning permission to put new illuminated signs above its shops in the village Main Street, and further along the route into Hunterfield Road.

But while planners had no issue with the change to the Hunterfield Road branch they ruled the same sign on the branch on the main street was not acceptable.

Planners refused to grant permission for a new chemist sign in a village after describing it as ‘unappealing’ despite approving the same sign for a second shop half a mile along the road.

Refusing express advertisement consent for the central branch they said: “The signage comprises of a modern illuminated sign which is not in-keeping with the character or appearance of the application building or neighbouring properties within the town centre.

“It is an inappropriate addition which does not take the characteristics of the area into consideration. While it is acknowledged that the chosen signage is similar to the size of other signage in the town centre, the illuminated signage is unappealing and out of character.

“The size and design of the illuminated sign will result in a detrimental impact upon the amenity and characteristics of the locality.”

Planners refused to grant permission for a new chemist sign in a village after describing it as ‘unappealing’ despite approving the same sign for a second shop half a mile along the road.

Images of the proposed sign which was described as six metres in length, showed it as a solid replica of a temporary banner currently hanging above the door of the shop.

A similar banner hanged over the Hunterfield Road branch which has been given the go ahead to install the new illuminated sign.

Approving the application for express advertisement consent for the shop, planners said: “The proposed signage is in keeping with the character and appearance of the existing building and the surrounding area.

“The signage would not be detrimental to the site or the surrounding area, nor would it have a significant adverse impact on highway safety.”