A TORQUAY trader's attempts to brighten up a back street with bunting have run into red tape.

David Armstrong from Shiphay has set up Camden Market TQ1, in what used to be a derelict building at Lower Union Lane, at the back of Central Cinema, and is pressing ahead with ideas to freshen up the area.

He has strung up bunting and has commissioned graffiti to direct customers but has been told by Torbay Council he needs to get permission for the improvements.

The building was recently transformed by sub-dividing the premises for new tenants, including fashion, jewellery stalls and artists.

But Mr Armstrong says making the area more attractive is not as easy as he thought.

Torbay Council says licences are needed for tables and chairs on the highway and stringing banners and it advises anyone opening a business to contact them early for advice.

Mr Armstrong said: "We just want to brighten up the whole area. We are not trying to take on the council over this, we are trying to work with it.

"I thought it was OK with the planning department to put up the bunting but now I find I need a highways licence."

He said the area had been derelict and used by drug addicts and he has been working with street wardens and the police to clean it up.

Mr Armstrong had commissioned a graffiti artist to decorate the back of the cinema but he now finds the Camden Market TQ1 mural, with an arrow pointing to Lower Union Lane, needs permission.

He said: "I intend to work with the council on these issues as otherwise it is counterproductive to what we intend."

He now plans to replace the present mural with a specially commissioned piece of artwork.

"The new mural will direct people to the shop and when it is finished it will knock people's socks off," he said.

But first he has to get the relevant permission.

Torbay Council says Mr Armstrong has carried out a number of activities, such as placing tables and chairs on the highway and stringing banners across the road.

A spokesman said: "Our officers have been to see Mr Armstrong to offer advice on the relevant pavement café and banner licences he will require.

"These are the same licences other businesses have to apply for and it is only fair this business does as well.

"We would advise anyone who is opening a business in the town to contact the council early on so we can help them through the process."