A planning application for a digital billboard in Brighton has been denied, citing concerns over its impact on the conservation area
Brighton: A spa company’s plan to install a digital billboard in the heart of the city has hit a wall. The Gel Bottle Inc wanted to put up a big electronic sign on the side of their building, which used to be a bank.
The billboard was set to be 15 feet by 8 feet, and they thought it would help attract more customers. But the local council wasn’t having it. They said the sign would clash with the historic vibe of the Old Town Conservation Area.
Officials pointed out that the proposed billboard would stick out like a sore thumb. They felt it would disrupt the character of the area, which is known for its charming, low-key signage.
The Gel Bottle Inc argued that the sign would only be on during business hours and wouldn’t show any flashy animations. They believed it wouldn’t harm the conservation area and would actually help their business.
After the council turned them down, the company appealed, showing examples of other LED signs in the area. But the planning inspector, John Allan, wasn’t convinced. He noted that most signs in the conservation area are subtle and blend in well.
He concluded that the proposed billboard would be too big and would stand out too much, making it an unwelcome addition to the neighborhood. So, the appeal was denied, and the digital billboard plan is officially off the table.
