COUNCILLORS have taken a tough stance over a shop front in Guisborough.

Fears of setting a precedent played a part in deciding on roller-shutter plans for a jewellers' shop.

And the firm concerned could now be made to halt work which has already started on alterations to the former bank building in Westgate.

At last Friday's meeting of Redcar and Cleveland planning committee, planning officer Doreen Mealing said the scheme was for the former Lloyds Bank building which had been empty for a while.

"The applicants want to take front window glazing to the ground and refuse to modify the plan, wanting to maximise the display area; we don't think this is acceptable," she said.

The shutter would be solid across the whole of the building.

Mrs Mealing said the local crime prevention officer had advised the firm that glass-breaking was a problem in Guisborough and that a full shutter would be the best safeguard.

"But we don't think this is the right approach. After all, valuables could be put in safekeeping at night," she said.

Coun Peter Spencer said that part of Westgate now had CCTV to alleviate security problems.

He had been distressed that morning to see work had already started on taking glass to ground level. "They could use the former bank's strong room to keep valuables," he said.

"If we don't take a stand other people will think they can get away with schemes like this. It would be an eyesore," he said.

Coun David Walsh said: "This is an important part of Guisborough and to give in would give the green light for people to use shutters like this all the way down the road. I dread to think what effect that would have on the street scene."

Coun Steve Kay said: "This is our heritage and we must protect it. Westgate is one of our pride and joys.

"It would be a huge expanse of dead frontage. Our officers have given the applicants realistic alternatives and people should listen to them."

The committee decided to refuse the application and to give planning officers powers of enforcement action to halt work