THE FASHION chain which plans to move into the former Borders bookstore in the centre of York has seen an application to put up new signs turned down.

Cult, which is planning to open at the Davygate site in September, had asked City of York Council for permission to install two illuminated signs outside the building, which has been empty since the end of 2009.

But Mike Slater, the council’s assistant director for planning and sustainable development, said in a decision statement that the signs would be “unduly prominent” and out of keeping with the consistent appearance of existing signs on the building.

He said they would detract from the appearance of the building and the character and appearance of the conservation area. Cult expects to create about 25 jobs when it moves into the 12,000sq ft building. The chain sells items including men’s and women’s clothing, jackets, T-shirts, jeans, footwear, jewellery and accessories.