Signs for new nursery at former Horsham pub

The conversion of the former Rising Sun pub in Pondtail Road was refused by Horsham District Council in 2018, but this decision was overturned by a planning inspector on appeal.

Now Perfect Start Day Nurseries has submitted an application to the council for signs at the site.

Originally it wanted permission for signs that were down-lit illuminated.

However following concerns from residents, officers, the Horsham Society and North Horsham Parish Council the proposed illumination has been removed, along with the proposed sign affixed to the side facade of the building.

A decision on the application is set to be made by HDC’s planning committee north on Tuesday May 5.

Officers are recommending approval, but residents have still objected.
One wrote:” Again, the application has changed for this nursery. Every time an application is put to the council, by the time the planning committee is due to make a decision the plans change.”

Another objector added: “This is a day nursery in the middle of an entirely residential road. There is no need for any illuminated signage/advertising whatsoever. It would be absolutely out of keeping in this wholly residential road.”

But according to a report from council officers: “It is therefore considered that the proposal as revised would not have an adverse impact on the character and visual amenities of the locality and the scheme is therefore recommended for approval. The siting and nature of the signs is not considered to have any adverse impact on public safety.”

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