PLANS to install communications equipment on a grade II listed building in south Cumbria have been dropped.

WHP Telecoms Ltd has withdrawn a planning application to install a ten-metre pole, antennas and dishes at Roxy Cinema on Brogden Street in Ulverston.

This comes after the Roxy Collective, who own the freehold of the building, objected to the proposals as they had not been informed.

In response to the plans, Ulverston Town Council added: “The plans and proposals would considerably change the aesthetics of The Roxy building. As it is such an important community building, Ulverston Town Council therefore do not support this application.”

Roxy Cinema opened in 1936 with its first showing being the musical ‘Rose Marie.’

A heritage statement submitted by the applicant says: “The proposal strikes a careful balance between the need for modern infrastructure and the preservation of the area’s historic and cultural heritage.

“The height of the telecoms mast has been positioned as low as operationally possible, the proposed colouring will not draw attention to the mast, and we have chosen to share the location with a current/ previously approved and installed mast.

“The development has been conceived with awareness to its surroundings, ensuring that the historical and cultural landscapes are not forgotten about. As a result the proposed telecommunication installation will have minimal impact on the location and its surroundings.”

The planning application was withdrawn on September 12.