AN application to put up an advertising poster panel in a Darlington street has been rejected at appeal by the Planning Inspectorate.

The inspectorate had been called in after Primelight Advertising appealed against a decision by Darlington Borough Council.

It had hoped to put up a plinth outside 220 Haughton Road on which the internally illuminated poster panel would be displayed.

Planning committee members rejected the idea in the interests of amenity and public safety.

Advertisement appeals officer Dave Waterman backed the council ruling, saying the panel, similar to those found on bus shelters, was excessive in size in relation to its setting.

Mr Waterman said: "Because of its size, height and bulk and with its displays made more noticeable by its full internal illumination, the impact of this panel in a predominantly residential setting would be one of unduly assertive and obtrusive advertising.