Click here to see map for location of 31 High Street Epsom

25/01206/FUL Display of 1No. internally illuminated fascia sign, 1No. internally illuminated projecting sign and 1No. non-illuminated window sign and the installation of 2No. external air conditioning condenser units (retrospective).

This is a retrospective application for installation signage at the front of a shop and air conditioning units on the property’s side wall of the property forming a pedestrian tunnel through the High Street frontage. The two units are prominent and intruding into the pedestrian walkway. The Society made no representation regarding the signage but has objected via the Comments facility on the EEBC Planning website as follows:-

“This comment submitted on behalf of Epsom Civic Society (ECS).

ECS is concerned about the awful appearance of the air condition units situated within the conservation area. These have been erected, this is a retrospective application to approve what has been installed.

The pathway to which these AC units face is well used.

The initial impression on walking from the car park to the High Street is one of pleasantness with a “Cottagey” feel of the small houses and their gardens fronting the path. However, on turning the corner the reality is very different.

The sides of the High Street buildings are seen, coupled with what external space there is, of being a poor and unkempt appearance together with a dingy and dark tunnel path leading to the openness of the High Street pavement.

The existence of the new AC units in their positions further “drags the pathway down”.

This application relative to the AC installation should be refused with a rider that they be positioned in a less offensive and an inconspicuous position.”