'Not in keeping with the area?' - Backlash over Blackpool Council decision to pull down Nelly Mulligan flags

Blackpool’s newest town centre Irish bar Nelly Mulligans has been ordered to take down illuminated flags hanging outside the venue.

Principal Planner Johnson decided that the flags were ‘unnecessary and excessive advertisement clutter’ and ‘out of keeping with the area’.

The pub opened on September 25 and back in the summer the owner applied for permission for ten externally illuminated A3 poster cases, 14 x window vinyls, eight externally illuminated flags, three internally illuminated fascia signs, three non illuminated fascia signs, one high level non illuminated fascia sign and two externally illuminated hanging signs.

The council granted permission for all proposed signs, except from the flags. So now, they have to be pulled down.

Sarah Morgan said the council’s decision was disappointing.

“At a time when Blackpool town centre has so many empty retail units and is facing ongoing challenges in attracting businesses and visitors, surely the priority should be supporting those who are investing in the town.

“I appreciate that planning regulations exist for a reason and businesses are expected to comply with them. However, there should also be a degree of common sense and proportionality when enforcing these rules.

“Businesses like Nelly Mulligans are helping to attract customers, create employment and contribute to the local economy. Rather than focusing on flags and signage, I would much rather see the council putting greater effort into addressing empty premises and encouraging investment in the town centre.

“Blackpool needs thriving businesses, and I believe the council should be doing everything reasonably possible to support them, rather than making it more difficult for them to operate.

Logan Thompson made the point: “Not in keeping with the area? The road parallel has the most lights on any English road!”

Matthew Smith added: “Can someone please tell me as quoted “not in keeping with the area” how the new government and council buildings are in keeping?

“Perhaps the planner and his department should actually have a look at their town and fix what’s wrong and run down and leave alone investment.

“I mean do you think the Tower ‘fit in’ back in the day when they demolished stuff to build it?

“I’m sure the UK was full of huge metal towers… perhaps think out of the tick box. No wonder investors are reluctant.”

There are also a number of lamps and LED signs which are on display outside Nellie Mulligans which do not have planning consent, and Blackpool Council’s Planning Enforcement Team will be sent to investigate.

Nelly Mulligans has been open since September 25, taking over the former Brannigans venue after it closed earlier this year. It is open seven days a week and boasts

live entertainment and sports.

Theo Petrocelli added: “Pointless red tape. The area isn't residential so will not annoy anyone. The licensing trade is difficult enough without councils impeding advertising.”