THE owner of Wisbech s Horse Fair Shopping Centre has been told to think again about its proposals to paint the town red. Use of red throughout the centre would utilise colours and an image of a horse which are inappropriate , say Fenland District Counci

THE owner of Wisbech's Horse Fair Shopping Centre has been told to think again about its proposals to paint the town red.

Use of red throughout the centre "would utilise colours and an image of a horse which are inappropriate", say Fenland District Council's planners.

Nigel Brown, the council's development manager, says the design "is not considered to be acceptable in this location".

Owner Zurich Assurance Ltd has spent months, and thousands of pounds, drawing up an elaborate scheme to re-vamp 22 hanging signs, a wall sign, two walkway signs, and two banners and a canopy sign.

But the council has used its powers under the Town and Country Planning Act to veto the changes.

Mr Brown says the proposals would result in a development "which fails to enhance the character of the Wisbech conservation area".

Adam Tew, a building surveyor acting for the owner, said the new signs had been drawn up with a red background and off white and blue sign writing and logos.