Bad sign for town centre trainer shop

their tests.

Footasylum declined to answer the Examiner’s inquiry as to why it did not apply for permission before it opened.

A spokesperson said: “We are disappointed with the council’s decision and are reviewing our next steps.”

The retailer’s planning struggles come fewer than two years on from a similar problem for Ugarit restaurant, on nearby Cross Church Street.

Ghassan Bateha, owner of the Syrian and Lebanese venue, was told his wooden panelled sign was out of keeping with planning rules and was ordered to take it down.

Mr Bateha was saved when councillors stepped in and over-ruled the decision of planning officers.

Clr Andrew Cooper, whose Newsome ward covers the town centre, was one of those who intervened.

Clr Cooper said he again found it hard to understand how certain businesses could be picked out when there were already a number of unattractive signs on Cross Church Street.

He said: “Last time, when I referred it to the planning committee, I pointed out that there were various other places which had signs that could in no way be regarded as heritage.

“The planning department has really got to think about how things look in the real world. If they had some kind of masterplan for the town centre that’s fine – but they don’t.

“So picking out applications in this way looks totally incongruous. It’s a nonsensical thing to do.”

This time it is not clear if Footasylum can do anything other than appeal to the Planning Inspectorate or to comply with the ruling.