An eyesore ‘Bargain Store’ sign installed without permission at the front of a former bank building in a conservation area has been removed.

Blackburn with Darwen Council said last week the sign that went up above the former NatWest bank building in The Circus, Darwen, was a ‘clear breach of rules’ due to the building being within the conservation area.

The sign was placed across the front entrance to the building, which has recently opened as The Bargain Store, and the windows were also adorned with huge posters advertising items for sale.

A spokesperson for the council said that the sign has now been removed, as have all the signs in the windows.

Lancashire Telegraph: The former bank building in Darwen in 2021The former bank building in Darwen in 2021 (Image: Google)

A spokesperson for the council said: “Last week we told you our Planning Enforcement Officers had visited the owners of the new Bargain Store to tell them to remove signs that had been erected around the former NatWest building.

“As it’s in a conservation area, they were in clear breach of the rules and we received a large amount of complaints through Darwen councillors.

“Our Officer visited again yesterday to follow-up with the seven-day deadline looming.

“We’re pleased to report all of the signs in the windows have now been removed.

“Our Highways Team is also taking action around the ramp which runs onto the public highway.

“Following discussions with the owner, we are expecting an Advert Application for the sign above the entrance door.

“Once received, this will be thoroughly assessed through the appropriate channels, including consultation with the Council’s Conservation Advisor.”

Darreners and town councillors contacted Blackburn with Darwen Council last week to complain about the sign, with one resident saying: "Not one to moan, but this really does take the biscuit. What an eyesore."