Landmark clock in Staffordshire market town could be lit at night as part of revamp for historic hotel
A landmark clock in the heart of an historic market town could be lit at night under plans for a revamp.
Plans have been lodged to replace the familiar skeletal clock on the front of The Lion Hotel with a similar-looking clock with 'subtle backlighting'.
Kevin Twigger has also applied for permission to install a strip of LED lighting beneath the name of the 18th-century hotel, so that it is visible at night.
The hotel, on the corner of Brewood Market Place, is a Grade II listed building. The clock, though, is a relatively recent addition.
A statement issued on behalf of the applicant said the changes would benefit both the business and the general appearance of the town at night.
It said: "At present, the building is a prominent feature during daylight hours, however, this presence is lost after dark.
"The proposed lighting scheme would enhance both the building and the square by maintaining the hotel's visual prominence during the evening. The lighting is proposed to operate from dusk until dawn."
Mr Twigger said the proposed lighting would operate from dusk until dawn, and would be limited specifically to the wall sign and clock.
"The works will enhance the legibility of these features during hours of darkness while avoiding harm to the building’s historic character or appearance," said the statement.
"By improving night-time visibility, the proposals will make a positive contribution to Market Square and reinforce the status as a prominent and visually dominant building within the historic townscape, without adversely affecting its heritage significance."
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