A NEW sign can be installed on a Grade I listed building in Ludlow, planners have agreed.

Ludlow Town Council applied to Shropshire Council for permission to add a sign to the Buttercross Museum in Ludlow.

The planning application says that the sign will direct people to the museum's entrance.

It states: "The sign is the sign displayed in the 1970s and 1980s. The sign would be installed to the left of the light fitting above the arch, facing towards the Rose and Crown. The sign measures 86.5 centimetres by 33 centimetres and is an exact duplicate of the sign located on the Church Inn side of the arch. 

"The sign is not only important for highlighting the museum's location and presence but it was also a historical feature of the town."

The design, access and heritage statement attached to the application says: "The Buttercross is an important building in the centre of town built between 1743 and 1746 and was designed by William Baker.

"The area underneath the Buttercross is still used as a marketplace as it was originally intended for the butter market. The building is instantly recognisable for its shape, columns and clock tower. 

"The addition of this sign does not affect either of the prominent views but would point out the hidden entrance that people often miss due to the building's unusual layout.

"The re-erection of this historical sign which was installed many years ago will improve access to the museum itself by subtly directing visitors."

The officer's report on the planning application says: "The application proposes the installation of a direction sign at Ludlow Town Council Museum. The property is a Grade I listed building within the Ludlow conservation area. The sign was erected in this position and its reinstatement would not create any harm to the listed building or conservation area in this instance. The proposed alterations would have no adverse impact on the historic fabric of the building."