YOU can't have a cinema without signs – that's the opinion of Falmouth's planning committee.

Councillors had been asked for their opinion on two applications, one for listed building consent and the other for advertising consent at the new cinema site in Berkeley Vale.

The applications seek permission to install an illuminated cinema sign with neon letters to the entrance canopy, neon blue lights to the underside of the gable parapet, eight illuminated publicity boards, and wash/uplighting to the front elevation.

Merlin Cinemas is nearing the completion of The Phoenix, a five screen facility which is being created out of the former Drill Hall.

At Monday's meeting, David Noakes, said: "You cannot have a cinema if you don't have signs. I propose we accept them (the applications)."

Mayor, Mike Varney, agreed. "They have fallen over backwards to comply with conservation and to restore the building to its former beauty," he said. "We have got to allow them to have these signs. It is only right and proper that we do."

Committee chairman, Steve Eva added: "The building is looking fantastic compared to what it was nine months ago. It has been given a new lease of life."

The committee voted unanimously to support the two applications.