South Street, Romford Smoke and Pepper signs application

A planning application has been submitted to Havering Council for new signage at the former Burger King unit.

The plans suggest the signs would support the rebranding of the site to Smoke & Pepper.

The Recorder reported earlier this year that Smoke & Pepper applied for a licence to serve late night refreshments from 11pm until 3am on Sunday to Wednesday and 11pm to 4am on Thursday to Saturday.

Burger King closed its doors last August.

The new signage plans include a softly illuminated fascia grille, a main fascia sign with internally lit Smoke & Pepper lettering, and a circular projecting sign on the frontage, also illuminated from within.

The unit sits in a three-storey building and is in the Romford Conservation Area.

While planning documents note that the ground-floor aesthetic is "poor", the upper floors are described as having "significantly greater architectural merit".

The applicant’s agent said: "Consent is sought to display replacement signage in line with the rebranding of the restaurant.

"The proposed signage would have an acceptable appearance, of simple, uncluttered, character.

"It is therefore hoped that the council is able to favourably determine this application."

If approved, the new signage would fill the entire fascia space, removing an existing "unsightly white gap".

Smoke and Pepper has almost 20 restaurants across the country, but most are in the London area.

On its website, it says it "has a passion for authentic food, bespoke design and a drive for customer excellence".

A wide range of burgers, wings and tenders all feature on its menu, as well as grilled chicken.

The brand says: "At Smoke & Pepper expect an unforgettable experience, where our expertly crafted dishes ignite your taste buds with a symphony of flavours."

Havering Council says a decision on the application is expected by September 4.