An Oxford business is facing backlash over plans to put up lit signage outside its premises, with local people calling the scheme unwelcome.

Magenta Self-Storage has submitted a retrospective planning request for illuminated displays at its Botley Road location. The proposed signage would be placed where Harley Road and Riverside Road meet.

The submission describes installing two large rectangular panels in magenta pink, featuring the word magenta in white text, with LED strip lighting for evening use.

Although the documentation presents the illumination as discreet, economical, and inconspicuous, locals have voiced significant concerns.

One resident from Botley Road pointed out that claims the lighting would be understated and blend in are clearly inaccurate, noting that he and his wife have had to alter their evening habits because of the bright glow entering their bedroom late at night. The shopfront spans roughly 20 metres and is already impossible to miss, making the need to boost visibility after dark unclear.

Other commenters observed that very few vehicles visit the storage site after dark, making the lighting pointless. Concerns were also raised about the light pollution the installation would cause.

A Harley Road local stated the illumination is excessively bright and overly commercial for a residential street.

The company described the lighting as the final phase of an extensive refurbishment that has given the site an improved, superior look.

Oxford City Council is examining the request.