A row has broken out in Whitchurch after a business owner changed his shop sign without approval from local planning officers.

Edward Keelan, of Lapwing Rise Whitchurch altered the signage on the pediment above the shop in Church Street, without applying for planning permission from Basingtoke and Deane Council.

After the works had been completed he posted on social media: ''I forgot to apply for planning permission, but locals have all been positive in their feedback."

Despite many residents rallying behind Mr Keelan, some have objected to the work. Mrs Jane Brown, Lynch Hill Park, said: "The colour and style are out of keeping with the original frontage and not in keeping with the town centre. Other shop keepers are extremely angry as they all know the rules and feel that to approve it would set a precedent for people to do whatever they want."

However, over a hundred locals have written to the council in support of Mr Keelan's change to the shop sign.

One of those is Mrs Sophie Smart, 60 Micheldever Road, who commented: "I fully support this renovation. The frontage looks amazing and has made a significant difference to the look and feel of the town - giving it back its true heritage feel. We love it! So grateful to the effort being made here."

A consultation is now underway with a decision likely to be made in December.