A WISBECH chemist shop has failed to get planning permission to install external security shutters on its Church Terrace premises - despite support from some local councillors.

Fairbrothers Pharmacy Ltd - which stands opposite the Grade I listed St Peter’s Church - has been told that its plan for shutters and an aluminium shop front door is detrimental to the conservation area.

At a meeting of Fenland District Council’s planning committee on Wednesday, Councillor David Hodgson attended to speak out in support of the application: “This shop had a break in and needs extra security because of the dangerous items stored inside,”.

A letter of support was also received from Councillor Simon King, and the plan had the support of Wisbech Town Council.

The Ancient Monuments Society and the Georgian Group had opposed the plan.

Committee member Councillor Mike Bucknor spoke out against the plan: “I have a fear that if we allow this type of shuter in an historical situation, we could end up with a Market Place that is totally grafittied,” he warned.

Recommending refusal of the scheme, a planning officer’s report said that information received by police showed the site “is not considered to be at significant crime risk.

“Other measures such as internal shutters, which are existing, and toughened glass could be used to overcome any risk of crime.”