LIKE a bad penny, plans for a large illuminated sign at the new Tesco in Bushey, keep turning up.

And no matter how many times councillors sitting on Hertsmere Borough Council's planning committee slay the beast, it lives to fight another day.

At a meeting on Thursday, October 18, councillor Martin Saunders said: "I approach this with more irritation each time, because this has come back again."

In May this year, Tesco was granted permission to build a new store on the site of the Esso Garage in High Road.

But the agreement limited the number of signs.

In August, another application came before the committee, asking for more signs. Again permission was given.

On both occasions the six square metre, well-lit sign was blocked by councillors.

They were not pleased to see their old adversary again.

Councillor Seamus Quilty said: "How many bites of the cherry do they want? This is totally wrong."

Councillor Mrs Miki Colne said: "I think it is absolutely hideous. It is awful and I will do everything I can to see it is not approved."

The committee has expressed its distaste at having no choice but to allow the new Tesco store. Because there was a garage on the site, and the new building includes petrol sales, there were no legal grounds for rejecting the idea.

Concern has been aired about the extra traffic coming to the area, that the garage is close to a conservation zone and listed buildings, and will affect business in the High Street.

But the illuminated sign is proving to be a real thorn in the side of councillors, and a reminder of the on going building work.

Councillor Saunders tried to finally dismiss the thing for good. "The answer is no," he said.

October 22, 2001 19:42

Philip Sands