Papa Johns in the centre of Maldon High Street may now be forced to amend signage after a retrospective planning application to Maldon district council was refused.

Maldon District Council refused the retrospective application on November 10, citing that:

"The design, size and positioning, combined with modern materials, lack of architrave surrounds, bright colour and excessive and cluttered arrangement of lettering is considered to be an incongruous addition that detracts from the site and the wider character and appearance of the area, consequently having an adverse effect on the amenity of the area."

Papa John's had proposed planning for 4 signs, including:

"Sign 1 - Aluminium tray sign vinyl wrapped with 1 set of non-illuminated built-up MATT finish letters painted red (PAPA JOHNS) and subtext in MATT finish acrylic. Illuminated by overhead trough light.

Sign 2 - Projection sign illuminated by overhead trough light mounted to the bracket.

Sign 3 - 2 off frames sets of brushed stainless bars with illuminated poster frames both sides mounted internally in window void. 

Sign 4 - Pair of externally applied window vinyls applied to glazing."

Papa John's is no stranger to planning refusals by Maldon District Council.

The chain faced 2 rejections before finally being given the green light in December 2022. 

Another application for the storefront was also refused in March this year, citing the same reasons for the most recent refusal.

Check out the most recent planning decisions, here.