A POPULAR Fordingbridge shop at the centre of a planning row has been told it must remove its distinctive black sign and more following a complaint to New Forest District Council (NFDC).
Owners of Tina at Timothy’s, Tina and Chris, said they are heartbroken after weeks of uncertainty over changes they made to the front of their shop.
The saga began about a month ago when someone reported the couple over work to the building’s exterior, including a black-painted brick wall.
However, the couple insist the work was not cosmetic alone.
In a message shared with supporters, Tina said the wall had been treated because “the bricks were crumbling and needed repair”.
While NFDC has ultimately accepted the work to the wall, the initial complaint prompted a review of the shop’s signage, and has resulted in the shop owners being ordered to remove their large black sign.
Tina said lighting and additional Timothy’s signs at the side of the building will also have to come down as a result of the complaint.
The decision has sparked frustration and sadness for the couple, who say the shop has become much more than a business.
“This shop is my baby. It is everything I have worked so hard for,” said Tina, describing the emotional toll the dispute has taken over the past month.
The couple said the situation had placed extra pressure on an already difficult trading environment for high street businesses, with the added expense of replacing woodwork and commissioning a new sign.
Despite the setback, the controversy has prompted a strong community response.
Tina and Chris thanked Fordingbridge Town Council members David Miller, Calvin Hinton and Peter White for their support, as well as customers and residents who have rallied around them.
A GoFundMe page, set up by resident Sarah Manston, has already raised money to help cover some of the costs of replacing the signage.
The couple also thanked customers for gifts, flowers and messages of encouragement.
“To all my customers, our friends, and everyone who has stood by us: from me and Chris – we love you all, and thank you for your support,” said Tina .
The new sign may soon be installed, but for many in the town, the debate over what belongs on Fordingbridge high street is unlikely to disappear quietly.
To donate, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/tina-at-timothys
NFDC has been approached for comment.
It’s a real shame that this business seems to have been singled out. While I understand that conservation rules are there for a reason and the sign may technically not comply, it did at least look clean, tidy, and well cared for. I can’t help feeling it would be more constructive if equal attention were given to some of the other listed buildings in town that are sadly in far worse condition.
The shop front is perfectly except-able. Perhaps planning was needed and this should be highlighted for future work.