A PROPOSAL to move the telephone box in Okehampton's Fore Street to make way for an enhancement project around St James' Chapel has made a local trader see red.
Optometrist Angus McPhie says the new position proposed for the phone box at the front of the chapel will make it one of the most visual features in the town. He described it as like a 'red Tardis' landing in front of the chapel.
'This large red box will detract from the beautiful view of the 13th Century church tower and its accompanying 17th Century chapel which has remained unscarred for 700 years,' he said.
The box would be placed centrally in the walkway between the ancient tower and Miller and Son estate agents.
Mr McPhie said he understood that the telephone box needed to be central to the town and convenient for the public but the tower was of great commercial value and anything that detracted from its natural beauty should be prevented.
'It is a major tourist attraction and brings visitors from far and wide,' he added.
'I urge anyone who agrees with me to write to John Milverton at West Devon Borough Council with their views.'
BT Payphones was requested by Devon County Council to apply for planning permission to relocate the box from the left side of St James' Chapel because of the enhancement scheme for the area which is due to start in June.
A spokesman for BT Payphones said the county council had chosen the new location.
Because the red telephone box was listed it would also require permission from the Government to be moved, he said.
Planning officer for West Devon Borough Council John Milverton said at the moment the view of the telephone box was against the side of the church but it would be viewed more from the front if it was moved.
'The new position would make it more apparent against the front of the church but if people are looking for a telephone box they will be able to see it more readily,' he said.
'If people object to the position we will have to look for other places to see if it can be relocated elsewhere.'