An internally-illuminated business sign at the 'Gadgets' shop in Epping High Street is being opposed by the town council – after it was put up without planning permission.

The town council has a policy to oppose internally-lit shop signs with a district council policy supporting the view if the signage affects the character of historic town centres.

Cllr Cherry McCredie told last night's (March 23) planning and general purposes committee: "I'm really getting a bit fed up with retrospective applications.

"People think they can do what they like, put in the application and it will go through. We have to be seen that we have teeth. We have to be strong here."

Committee chairman councillor Nigel Avey said: "We should stick to our guns. Previously we have said 'no' to illuminated signs."

Cllr Barbara Scruton said: "It is not going to affect their trade.

Town Mayor Grahame Scruton said: "If this had come to us before it was put in we would have objected because it is internally illuminated."

A retrospective advertisement consent application also includes details for a non-illuminated hanging sign.

Epping Forest Guardian:

For more breaking news, local headlines and features, ‘like’ our Facebook page.

We also have a Twitter account: @EppingFGuardian

Follow us to keep up-to-date with news in Epping Forest.