“Might isn’t always right” is the message from the leader of a community group after an appeal from Bellway Homes saw the developers granted permission for a large advertising sign on the edge of Elphinstone.

Bellway Homes was twice rejected retrospective planning permission for a large advertising sign, which measures 9.15m wide and 3m high, and is supported by aluminium posts 6.5m in height, by East Lothian Council planners.

However after an appeal to the Scottish Ministers, the sign which was erected last July was granted permission to stay on the grounds that it did not pose a safety risk and “did not have an adverse impact on amenity.”

READ MORE: Elphinstone: Giant sign at Bellway housing development allowed to stay

Despite the decision, Mike Falconer, chair of Tranent and Elphinstone Community Council, has criticised the developers for not listening to the local community.

He said: “I feel quite passionate about this one. They may have legal clearance to have the sign there and it may not be breaking any rules, but the fact is that it has upset many in Elphinstone, a community they want to get onside and plan to build more houses alongside.

“It is not good community relationship building from Bellway who, if they cared about the community, would have listened to the concerns from the village and taken the sign down.

“It would not have cost them much, I don’t think the sign will sell houses, and it would have shown they cared what those who live here think.

“Instead they have taken it all the way and the village will have to accept it.

“I think might isn’t always right and the way Bellway has acted does nothing for the community.”

A spokesperson for Bellway Homes previously told the Courier they did not wish to comment further on the matter.