New Digital Advertising Screens Approved For Barrow Town Centre
Barrow councillors have approved plans to install three digital advertising screens in the town centre following a planning committee decision this week.
The approved scheme will see illuminated digital advertising displays installed at Portland Walk, Dalkeith Street, and Duke Street. The application was submitted by Clear Channel UK, which said the screens would replace traditional advertising boards while providing modern digital display technology.
Planning officers recommended approval after concluding the displays would not cause unacceptable harm to public safety or the character of the surrounding area. Highway officers also raised no objections, stating the proposed locations met relevant guidance for driver visibility and distraction.
During the committee meeting, some councillors expressed concerns that moving digital images could distract motorists and alter the appearance of the town centre. Others argued the screens reflected modern advertising practices and would contribute to regeneration by improving the area's commercial appeal.
The screens will display a mixture of commercial advertising and community information. Planning conditions require the advertisements to change only at fixed intervals, with no flashing images or rapid transitions permitted in order to minimise distraction for road users.
Clear Channel told the committee that digital displays allow greater flexibility for promoting local events, public information campaigns, and emergency messaging in addition to paid advertising. The company also stated the new screens are more energy efficient than older illuminated advertising panels.
After considering the application, councillors voted to approve the plans, allowing installation work to proceed once all planning conditions have been satisfied. The new displays are expected to become operational later this year.
Got a news story or tip to share? Contact our editorial team by emailing news@lakelandpost.co.uk or call us directly on 0333 090 2080.