Planners have refused to let the owners of the award-winning Bizzie Lizzies chip shop keep a number of advertising display signs which have been described as "too gaudy and numerous" by Skipton Civic Society.

Consent was sought to retain six unauthorised business signs, five of which are externally illuminated, which have been displayed around the building. Two further signs have been erected which do not require consent and the application was discussed by members of Craven District Council's planning committee.

Coun Dennis Hall said: "The number of signs is totally out of all proportion to the building."

Members of Skipton Town Council said: "The town council feel that there are too many signs and that the position, size, colour and design detract from the attractive features of the building."

And members of the town's civic society added: "This property is in a prominent location on a busy approach to the town centre.

It's design and materials have produced a pleasant building.

"It is therefore regrettable that its appearance is spoilt by a rash of advertisements that are too large, too gaudy and above all, too numerous."

A planning officer's report said: "Had these proposals been submitted for prior approval in the normal manner, it is certain that the planning officer would have sought to negotiate significant changes to the proposals."

Planning officers are to negotiate with the chip shop owners to decide how many of the signs can stay up.

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