A planning application to install a five-metre-high illuminated pole sign advertising EV charging at an MFG forecourt in Bury St Edmunds has been withdrawn, despite local authorities raising no objections.
The sign would have featured a large, stylised image of a plug and cable at its top, with ‘EV power, super-fast charging’ below, and MFG’s logo beneath this.
In 2023 MFG received planning approval to install four EV bays served by Alpitronic chargers at these site, though these are yet to be listed online as being available. An application to extend the forecourt shop was approved in the same year.
West Sussex’s conservation officer said they had no objection to the sign as, despite it being prominent, “it would be seen against the backdrop of the existing service station”.
The local highways authority, Suffolk County Council, said the sign could go ahead as it would not have a “detrimental effect” on the road, while Bury St Edmunds Town Council also recommended the application be approved.
One local resident objected to the proposal, citing several concerns, including that the sign would increase light pollution at the site, which they said has undergone “steady expansion” over the years.
No reason was given for the application’s withdrawal.
