A LARGE digital billboard on Great Horton Road would “distract drivers” on the busy street – planners have said.

An application to install the sign on Raja's restaurant – 258 Great Horton Road – has this week been refused by Bradford Council.

Highways officers argued that a new, illuminated billboard would cause road safety issues, while planners said the sign would cause “significant harm to the character and appearance” of the street.

The application, submitted by Raja’s LTD last year, said it would be a “cutting edge digital screen".

It argued the building was “an ideal location for an advertisement board due to its vibrant and bustling atmosphere".

It added: "As one of the main arterial routes in the city, it experiences heavy foot and vehicular traffic, ensuring a large and diverse audience.

 “The screen will ensure maximum visibility to passing commuters and pedestrians, making it an ideal platform for businesses to boost brand awareness and reach their target audience effectively.”

But refusing the plans, officers said: “The road is a busy route which is used daily by motorists travelling in and out of the city centre.

“Due to the sheer size of the proposed digital screen, it is likely to result in causing a distraction to drivers through affecting their line of sight.”