THE installation of a cashpoint machine in West?Devon has lit up controversy, following complaints that its red/pink surround, which stands out in the dark, is not in keeping with the traditional buildings.

The new ATM machine was installed by NatWest at its branch close to Bedford Square in?Tavistock — to the annoyance of its critics, it was installed before planning permission was granted.

An application had been submitted on behalf of the bank but the works went ahead without waitng for the consultative process via West Devon Borough Council to be completed.

Nigel Eadie, chairman of Tavistock Chamber of Trade, described the illuminated surround as a 'monstrosity'.

He said:?'It's an absolute eyesore. You walk across from Bedford Square and it immediately hits you like the Blackpool illuminations. It is completely out of keeping in an area of conservation and of historic importance. This illuminated ATM is absolutely outrageous.'

He added that Nat West are a good employer who make a positive contribution to the life of the town.

The borough council's conservation officer recommended refusal of the application.

He noted that while the Nat West building did not have a historic shopfront it does have architectural character, utilises good materials and considered it 'a good example of its kind'.

He said: 'I recommend refusal on the grounds of failure to preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the conservation area and also harm the setting of listed buildings.'

Borough council spokesperson Alison Stoneham said: 'We understand that the work on the ATM was carried out in the last few weeks – in the middle of the consultation period into the application, which concluded on November 8.

'We have contacted the agent working on behalf of NatWest, saying that the sign is contrary to policy as no internal illumination is allowed in a conservation area. To this date, we have not heard back from them.

'We have received a number of complaints from the public, although Tavistock Town Council is recommending that the application be approved.

'The planning officer is recommending refusal. The Tavistock North ward members must now decide whether or not to call the application in to the West Devon Borough Council planning and licensing committee or allow the decision to be delegated.'

But having been contacted by the Times NatWest decided to make a quick withdrawal on their new ATM signage.

Grant McDonald, a spokesman for Nat West said: We're in the process of installing new ATM signs throughout the country and have applied for, and achieved, the necessary permission in the majority of sites.

'In Tavistock we inadvertently progressed the installation before receiving approval and have now arranged for the sign to be removed.'

Council planners had set a date of December 5 to make a decision on the application.

RIGHT:?The NatWest cashpoint with its illuminated edging.