Commercial premises and shops have a long tradition of having their facades painted to draw attention to themselves and to advertise what they sell.
This tradition still continues today, but where it does happen, it is important that the harmony and unity of the whole facade, including such aspects as lettering and signage, is maintained.
Before taking any action with a shop-face which changes its appearance, you are strongly advised to consult with Wirral Council who will provide advice on what is and is not possible.
Permission is more likely to be granted if the proposal is as, or more, in keeping with the local area and uses suitable materials and methods.
This page gives advice in these areas, but please remember that the Council is the final arbiter so consider this advice as preparatory rather than definitive.
The restrictions depend on the type of premise
For Basement commercial premises, advertising display needs approval. Removable on-street display boards may be acceptable where the existing pavement is wide enough for the removable display board.
For Commercial properties altered in the 20th Century, it may be appropriate to use a suitable masonry paint on the ground floor shop front, but not elsewhere on the period building,
There are three main types of masonry paint available today.
- Water-borne ones use modern acrylic emulsions and are easy to apply by brush, roller or spray.
- Solvent-borne ones use a synthetic rubber resin and last well, but release a lot of Volatile Organic Solvents (VOCs) when they dry, which contribute to atmospheric pollution. Be careful to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. e.g. Pliolite ® resin paints VOCs – Volatile Organic Solvents, e.g. the Scottish Lime Centre, 01383 872 722 , www.scotlime.org
- A third group are called ‘silicate’ paints and although not traditionally used in this country, have been used in Europe for over a century with good results.