Illuminated and vinyl signs at 112 Argyle Street, Glasgow

“Site and Description The property is a Category B listed building dating from 1898–99. It was originally constructed to accommodate luncheon, tea and games rooms, along with a central store for the owner. Since then, its use has evolved, with a Class 1a unit occupying the ground floor and office space located on the upper levels. In addition to its listed status, the building is situated within the Central Conservation Area.”

“The site occupies a particularly prominent position within Glasgow’s city centre, forming one of the key views up Argyle Street. Argyle Street is a key retail location within Glasgow therefore experiences consistently high levels of pedestrian footfall.”

“Relevant Planning history: An application was previously submitted for a similar scheme, which included vinyl, fascia signage and a projecting sign as part of an advertisement consent application. The planning agent was advised that the proposed signage did not comply with policy and would therefore be refused, due to its negative impact on visual amenity. Following further discussions, a revised scheme was developed, and advertisement consent was subsequently granted.”

“However, despite repeated emails requesting confirmation of when the unauthorised works would be removed and the approved scheme implemented, no timescale was ever provided. As a result, this was later reported to planning enforcement.”

“Representations/Consultations Seven letters of support were received for this application with all representatives mentioning the below material consideration:”

“Positive visual impact of the internal and external signage on the character of the listed building…”

“Regarding part (b) the signage is not considered to have any impact on public safety.”

“Overall, the proposals are considered not to comply with the objectives set out in the Glasgow City Development Plan and associated Supplementary Guidance. With regard to the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) (Scotland) Regulations 1984 the proposal is considered to be unacceptable. With regard to (a), the proposal is considered to be harmful to amenity by virtue of the poor design of the proposed signage.”

“26/00151/ADV - Display of an illuminated box sign, vinyl signs, board sign to fascia and change to lettering in fascia – Advertisement consent refused.”

“There was submitted a report by the Executive Director of Neighbourhoods, Regeneration and Sustainability regarding an application by Mor Bakehouse for advertisement consent for display of an illuminated box sign, vinyl signs, board sign to fascia and change to lettering in fascia at 112 Argyle Street (Ward 10) - 26/00151/ADV.”