Glossop barber's illuminated shop sign not 'humble' enough

A barber shop in Glossop has been refused retrospective planning permission for its illuminated shop signs because they are ‘not in keeping with the humble qualities of the Conservation Area’.

Pending an appeal, Teno Cutz on High Street West, which opened last October, must remove its main 4.5x0.90m box sign, as well as its barber pole and circular sign that juts from the wall. 

A conservation officer from High Peak Borough Council was scathing of the signage in their rejection decision, saying, “I disagree the project preserves any architectural character, nor does it contribute to any historic interest of the vicinity.” 

“The scheme is not faithful to the High Peak Shopfronts design guide, nor does it take account of the closely accompanying listed building and setting; Grade II listed The Oakwood, a late 18th Century ornate stone gothic revival building. 

“Due to the visual impact and overbearing appearance of this scheme I do not agree that it is negligible, and advise that support is gained from the High Peak Shopfront design guide to achieve a more appropriate and respectful frontage to this building. I cannot provide full support and recommend refusal.” 

The shop is part of the Norfolk Square Conservation Area, which was commissioned more than 200 years ago by the Duke of Norfolk to accommodate his mill workers, becoming a protected zone in 1970. 

Before becoming a barber shop the building housed The Artful Pigeon Gallery, which has now relocated to High Street East. 

Rosie Dineen, the application’s Case Officer, said: “The Council has design guidance on shopfronts and signs which encourages the retention of traditional shopfronts and signage in a conservation area so that the historic character of the street scene and individual buildings are preserved. 

“The Design Guidance for Signs notes that fascia signs are a most important element of the shopfront and local street scene and that care must be taken to integrate the fascia within the building and so avoid obscuring windows or architectural details.” 

The owner of Teno Cutz didn’t comment when asked for his reaction.