‘Distraction’ fears KO Hollinwood sign

FlashbacK . . . Frank Rothwell’s original sign on the M60 embankment at Hollinwood

Frank remains defiant

A DETERMINED businessman remains upbeat despite the latest refusal by the Highways Agency to allow a Hollywood-style logo on the M60 embankment.

Frank Rothwell was told that the agency owns the land where the Manchester Cabins boss wants to erect a “Hollinwood” sign, and will not grant permission.

Mr Rothwell, who pointed out that the agency has already constructed a Welsh dragon and an English lion on the M56 embankment at Queensferry, said it would be an iconic work of art.

But Ruth Moynihan, of the Highways Agency, disagreed.

She claims a Hollinwood sign would be a distraction, even though it has planning permission from Oldham Council.

She added: “The whole purpose of a work of art is to make people look at it. That is, by definition, a distraction.”

It was also pointed out that ll Highway Agency signs have to be tested for crash safety if they were hit by a vehicle, and there is no precedent for a Hollinwood sign.

Other signs by motorways may be on private land, or advertising companies running motorway services stations.

The Welsh dragon is a flat landscaping feature, which cannot be seen from a distance.

Mrs Moynihan added: “The road is straight at that point and does not carry the same level of traffic as the M60. It does not therefore offer the same potential to distract motorists.”

But undaunted Mr Rothwell said: “I am enthusiastically taking advice on my next step.

“I knew before I started that this would not be easy. I knew it would be like climbing a ladder. I didn’t know the height of the ladder, however it looks like 10 rungs and we are now safely on rung four.

“I feel the Highways Agency’s arguments for refusal are weak.”