AN APPLICATION to erect flood lighting at The George Hotel in Hatherleigh has been refused because it will have a negative impact on the conservation area.

West Devon planners have agreed that an advertisement sign can be put on the front of the building, but said the proposed lighting —including six floodlights on the front elevation — were 'excessive and unnecessary.'

The George Hotel was originally constructed around 1450 but was rebuilt following an extensive fire which resulted in the building being de-listed.

Planning officers said it was still a prominent structure in the centre of Hatherleigh, a positive building in the conservation area and was in close proximity to several listed buildings.

Hatherleigh Town Council had supported the application for signs and means of illumination.