FEARS that one of Ledbury's most iconic buildings , the medieval Master's House, could end up looking like a pub chain property have been raised by town councillors.

They have objected to Herefordshire Council plans to put large lettering high on a chimney breast.

The contemporary-looking lettering would be black, except for the "T" in the wording "The Master's House", which would be bright red.

The contentious issue was raised at last week's economic development and planning committee meeting in the Methodist Church Hall, when an artist's impression of the lettering on the listed building met with a largely negative response from town councillors.

Town and county councillor, Andrew Warmington said: "One word - ugh! What were they thinking?"

Ledbury's deputy mayor, Cllr Elaine Fieldhouse said: "It would look like a pub chain building. It's hideous."

Ledbury's major, Cllr Debbie Baker said: "Surely a sign on a post is better than a sign on the building?"

Cllr Bob Barnes said his first response was, "Oh dear." But he said the style of the proposed lettering was actually in keeping with the medieval building.

Cllr Jean Simpson explained that the idea for the lettering was to stop visitors from getting confused when trying to find the Master's House, which is located on St Katherine's car park.

She said: "Some visitors think that St Katherine's Hall, which is also on the car park, is the Master's House, and so there's a bit of confusion."

Cllr Matthew Eakin said the issue was down "a question of what sort of signage we should have."

The planning application for listed building consent "to erect signage to the external façade of the building" was submitted by Herefordshire Council, which will have the final say.

The county council plans to make a decision by May 8.

A 2.9m restoration of the fifteenth century Master's House was completed two years ago, and the building is now home to the town library and a branch office of Herefordshire Council.