'Monstrosity' big screen approved for town centre

A computer generated image shows what the proposed screen could look like

Plans for a new big screen in Newcastle-under-Lyme have been given the go-ahead as part of a £390,000 investment in the town centre.

The 29ft (8.8m) high digital screen in High Street will show films, sports events and display community messages.

Members of the borough council's planning committee approved the proposals despite concerns over its impact on the conservation area.

The council said it considered the "limited harm" would be outweighed by benefits such as attracting visitors to the town.

'Detract from the conservation area'

It has proposed the screen, which measures 17ft (5.1m) by 9.5ft (2.9m), is switched off between 22:00 and 08:00.

Councillor John Williams called the screen a "monstrosity" and compared it to one in Lymedale, where he said the colours were "absolutely appalling".

He said: "It will detract from the conservation area because of its size and massing.

"I've always agreed that we should have an area in the town where people can gather and watch football matches or concerts, but not a permanent structure like this one."

'Good for residents'

Councillor Mark Holland said anything that enhanced the town centre was "good for our residents".

Addressing concerns over light from the screen, he added: "If this thing casts a lurid glow across the conservation area then we might have to think twice about having it switched on at full illumination until 22:00."

As well as providing entertainment and information, the screen will also show advertising, raising funding for its operation 40% of the time, the council said.