A PLANNED advertising hoarding in Frome will be a paper version – not digital – after discussions with residents.

In January, Wildstones Estates Ltd was granted permission for a digital advertising board at Station Approach.

However, the company has now reapplied for permission, but this time for a more traditional ‘paper and paste’ billboard on the verge.

While it will still be illuminated, the application said the change had come after discussions with locals.

“Following discussions with local residents, it has been decided not to implement the digital consent and instead to implement a paper and paste advertisement display,” the application to Somerset Council said.

“As such, we are seeking a fresh express consent.”

The board would be installed on a verge outside Frome station, in the same position as a previous billboard, which was removed around five years ago, with a slightly amended position to be more visible to people passing.

Landscaping work would be carred out around the billboard, which measures 6m x 3m x 0.1m, the application added.

“In addition to the advertisement display, it is proposed to landscape the adjacent site through the planting of trees,” it said.

“This will improve the appearance of the site and the entrance to station and commercial properties.”

Lighting would comply with national guidelines, it said.

An advertising board previously located at the Frome site was removed some five years ago. Picture: Google

However, a comment on the application objected to the scheme.

Jeremy Cripps wrote: “Although this is an improvement to the previous application, it still raises questions about the public amenity and road safety in that location.

“As well as the waste of energy and resources to construct, maintain and run the proposed site.

“The decision on the previous application totally ignored public opinion. I hope the council uses a proper democratic discussion process before making the decision on this application.”

For more information, and to comment on the plan, log on to www.somerset.gov.uk and search for application reference 2023/0516/ADV.