PLANS by McDonald’s to put a 16ft totem pole outside its restaurant in Hadleigh have been refused.

The chain wanted to place the sign, which would have had the famous golden arches logo on top of it, outside the front of its store in High Street as part of a £300,000 refurbishment.

But Castle Point councillors refused the plans at a planning meeting because they thought the new sign would be obstructive to the neighbouring area.

The aluminium and timber sign would have carried various advertising panels as well as the famous M logo.

Particular opposition for the plans had come from friends of the St James the Less Church, Rectory Road, which neighbours the restaurant.

Members of the congregation complained about the application, saying it would damage the character of the church, a Grade 1 listed building dating back to the 12th century.

Speaking at the meeting, Una Kipps, a churchgoer at St James, said: “If this sign was put up, it would be the first thing any wedding or funeral party would see when they go outside.

“We don’t think it is necessary for the restaurant because it would do nothing to draw customers to it, and pedestrians do not need a huge sign to draw them in.”

Many councillors agreed with the church’s reservations.

Norman Smith, councillor for Boyce ward, said: “I think this is inappropriate signage next to our most beautiful church.”

Councillor Colin Riley, Victoria ward, also disagreed with the plan, thinking it was going a step too far.

He said: “Some people thought the restaurant wasn’t right for the site, but we had to allow it.”

Plans to put up a height restriction for vehicles and a banner sign were also refused, but plans for nine other signs outside the restaurant, such as fascias and free standing signs, were approved.

Other plans to refurbish the restaurant, including new fencing, were deferred to a meeting on November 23.