A Derbyshire MP has called on the government to review planning rules after a controversial digital billboard was installed in Matlock despite being rejected by the local council.
The large advertising screen on Bakewell Road has sparked criticism from residents, with some describing it as a “monstrosity” that is out of keeping with the character of the historic spa town.
Derbyshire Dales District Council originally refused planning permission for the billboard, citing concerns over road safety and its impact on the appearance of the area.
However, the company behind the proposal, Wildstones Estates Limited, successfully appealed to the Planning Inspectorate, which overturned the council’s decision and granted permission for the billboard to remain for five years.
The digital screen was installed earlier this month.
In its ruling, the Planning Inspectorate said the area already contained a variety of advertisements and signage, and that advertising was an established feature of the location.
The inspector concluded that the billboard would not appear out of place in the setting and would not harm the character of the area.
But Derbyshire Dales MP John Whitby has strongly criticised the decision and has written to Housing Secretary Steve Reed seeking clarification on planning guidance relating to digital billboards in historic towns that are not protected by conservation area status.
Mr Whitby said he was concerned that the Planning Inspectorate’s framework did not properly consider the character of historic market and spa towns.
“Residents have described the billboard as a monstrosity – and I agree with them,” he said.
“The billboard is not in keeping with the surrounding rural landscape, or the historic Victorian spa town of Matlock.
“In my opinion, planning consent should never have been granted, and the billboard should be removed.”
Matlock is known for its Victorian spa heritage, historic buildings and proximity to the Peak District. The wider Matlock and Matlock Bath area contains seven conservation areas, although the site itself is not within one.
The Planning Inspectorate said its inspectors are independent and impartial and that all evidence submitted as part of an appeal is carefully considered.
A spokesperson said a site visit was carried out in February before the decision was made.
The Planning Inspectorate has previously rejected similar digital billboard applications in other parts of the country where concerns were raised about their impact on historic surroundings.
Derbyshire Dales District Council and Wildstones Estates Limited have both been approached for comment.
