A BIG yellow dinghy and other brightly coloured items displayed outside a new shop have been moved inside after an outcry over the outlet's appearance.
The arrival of Homeware Zone in Reigate's picturesque High Street almost two weeks ago caused a torrent of comments, with some saying it "lowered the tone", and others hitting back calling its critics "snobs".
Some complaints focused on the colourful stock being on the pavement but Surrey County Council told this paper there was no problem with the goods outside, as long as they didn't cause an obstruction.
The external display has since diminished, but the shop says it's got nothing to do with any complaints. As the rain came down on Monday, customer assistant Amar Singh said stock would be placed outside according to "seasonal" demand.
Staff had received no direct complaints, he said, adding: "People like the shop."
Reigate Business Guild chairman Shirley Cox has appealed for the shop-bashing to stop.
"They have been given the tenancy," she said. "Now they have got to be allowed to trade. It is not their fault.
"People have expressed their opinion, the council has made its judgement. We have got to be careful we are not too snobbish."
The shop is not the only one to display goods outside. Many shops also display A-boards and a number of Church Street and High Street pubs, cafes and restaurants have permission for tables and chairs outside.
Jeanne Bluett-Duncan, sales assistant at Art of Living in High Street, which also displays some goods outside the shop front, said she saw no issue with it.
She said: "We have had no complaints. We always try to leave as much space as possible. It would be different if it was big chunky things outside."
Homeware Zone is in the former Blockbuster unit on a short-term let. No permanent tenant has yet agreed a lease.
French bistro chain Côte has confirmed it is planning to open a restaurant in Reigate but would not confirm where, as its lease is yet to be finalised.
