Telecoms giant refused permission to install digital screen on busy Leeds road
Telecoms giant refused permission to install digital screen on busy Leeds road
Telecoms firm BT has been refused permission to install digital display screens on a busy road.
Concerns were raised that a Street Hub installation with two screens would distract motorists on Roundhay Road.
The hubs are designed to replace BT payphones and offer USB charging, free public Wi-Fi and an emergency services button.
BT said the LCD screens would used to carry advertising at the site near the junction with Beck Road.
A design report said: “Connectivity drives productivity and innovation and is the physical underpinning of a digital nation.
“Being connected is fundamental to the success in our modern world and Street Hub provides a cost-free way for communities to get online and take advantage of available opportunities”
Leeds City Council refused BT’s application for planning permission and advertising consent.
The council’s highways department formally objected, saying there was a history of traffic collisions in the area.
A planning officer’s report said: “All advertisements are intended to attract attention, but proposed advertisements at points where drivers need to take more care are more likely to affect public safety