Plans to introduce a new cash machine with illuminated signs outside Burnham-On-Sea’s Post Office have this week prompted a heated debate about whether such developments should be allowed in the town centre’s conservation area.

Town councillors approved the proposals for a new ATM machine between the two post boxes outside the building in Vicarage Street despite an objection.

The post office is located inside Burnham’s Conservation Area, which was set up several years ago to protect the town centre’s character and avoid certain types of development going ahead – but some residents believe the policy is not being followed.

Cllr Bill Hancock said: “The Post Office’s application is for a building within Burnham’s Conservation Area, but there’s already a cinema and club just across the streets with many lights on the outside, so I see nothing wrong here.”

Cllr Peter Burridge-Clayton added: “The plans are in keeping with other commercial applications in this part of the town. The cash machine and signs will help the future sustainability of the post office.”

Burnham resident Beverley Milner-Simonds, who objected against the proposals, said the illuminated signs are not in line with the district council’s policy.

“This building is in Burnham’s Conservation Area and the use of an illuminated sign is not in keeping with the aims and objectives of the Conservation Area,” she said.

“The points raised by Cllr Burridge Clayton that there are other buildings with illuminated signs is not a reason to grant another. Previous applications, even if they were granted in error, do not allow there to be further transgressions.”

The Post Office’s application is subject to a final decision by Sedgemoor District Council. The Conservation Area topic is likely to be further debated with the council in coming weeks.

 
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