Bar ordered to take down ‘unsightly’ signs

A CITY centre Latino-themed bar has been ordered to take down “unsightly” illuminated signs.

El Barrio, in Hanover Street, had initially been told to remove the notice by the city council, but appealed to the Scottish Government for the sign to remain.

However, that appeal has now failed after the Holyrood planning reporter dismissed the bid.

The club hung the sign which reads “El Barrio, Latino Bar and Club” as well as a flagpole and a CCTV camera without permission to do so.

Because it is a listed building, both the local authority and the Scottish Government planning departments have ruled it is a breach.

Reporter Donald Harris said: “I dismiss the appeal against the listed building enforcement notice.

“Because they are unsightly, the advertisements in question are inconsistent with the preservation of this listed building.”