Two sponsorship signs at Roadside verge adjoining Belfast Road and A2 Belfast Road, Holywood

“The site is located on a roadside verge connecting the A2 with the Belfast Road leading toward Holywood. The site is comprised mainly of grass with some shrubbery and medium sized trees toward the rear of the verge. A filling station and shop is located immediately behind the verge to the North.”

“The proposed signage measures 0.6m from ground level and 0.75m in width. The signage will act as advertising signage and currently contains the name and logo of a sponsor. This is subject to change with the agent confirming that the name and logo of a sponsor will be chosen in line with Ards and North Down Borough Council Roundabout Sponsorship Policy. The retrospective proposal includes 2 identical signs which are visible when travelling along Belfast Road.”

“The signage is modestly scaled reaching a maximum of 60cm in height and as such will not significantly disrupt the views of motorists or result in safety concerns. The signage does not appear similar to or obstruct road signage and will not contain features which may distract or impede road users. Considering the scale and siting of the proposed signage along with the comments provided by DFI Roads, I do not consider the proposal to result in safety concerns.”

“DFI’s consent as land owner is required before any advertisement is placed on its land. Such consent, if approved, will be by way of a licence agreement. Planning permission for any advertisement does not convey DFI’s consent for any advertisement on its land. Application to advertise on DFI’s land should be made direct to DfI Roads Lands Headquarters, Clarence Court, 10-18 Adelaide Street, Belfast, BT2 8GB, or email…”

“Representations No representations have been received in relation to this application…”

“Images of the location were shown. The proposal was in accordance with the SPPS2 and AD1 of PPS17 in that it would respect the general characteristics of the area, would not impact amenity and would not prejudice public safety. DFI Roads had no objections. In summary, officers were content it met policy and recommended the proposal for approval.”

“The Officer explained that this application was for two signs, and numbers for each roundabout were specified within each application. He added that the Council had to consider each location individually and the size of the signs was relatively small. The signs were designed to blend with the natural features and offer only fleeting visibility for passing motorists. Any unauthorised additional signage would be subject to enforcement action.”