A controversial planning application to erect illuminated signs on Cromer's Pier has been approved by the district council.

The decision to allow three illuminated, and one non-illuminated signs, to be put up on the Grade II listed Cromer Pier was approved by the North Norfolk District Council on April 25.

Two large illuminated signs advertising the Tides Restaurant will face out over the sea on either side of the Pier's entry buildings.

The signs will read 'Tides Restaurant' and 'eat... relax... enjoy the view'.

A further illuminated sign advertising the Box Office will also be put up.

A menu board will also be put up on the side of the restaurant.

In their consent to the plans, NNDC also specified a number of conditions to the application.

These include a time limit on how long the work can take, and safeguarding of the Pier's character.

The application, submitted by the Pier's management firm Openreach, was largely opposed by the local community.

Chris Gurney wrote on facebook: 'No to this application, and not least because they would be vandalised every five minutes and would ruin the character of the Pier.'

Rosemary Annandale added: 'In my opinion, illuminated signs would be a disfigurement.'

In a formal objection to the plan, Paul Hurst wrote: 'There is no precedence for three dimensional signs or lettering on this building and seems of a modern 20th century form.

'I am not sure why the signage requires illumination, as the commercial property concerned closes at 5.30pm and throughout winter evenings.

'In addition, the material is out of character for the materials and fabrics of the Pier.'

In their consent to the plans, NNDC also specified a number of conditions to the application.

These include a time limit on how long the work can take and safeguarding of the Pier's character.