BDSM bar to take down contentious sign

ONE of the most eye-catching signs on North Main Street is set to be replaced. 

Publican Benny McCabe told the Evening Echo plans were underway to replace the main signage on the Black Dog Saloon & Mezcalaria (BDSM) bar.

“We are launching a design competition to find its replacement,” he said.

The signage on BDSM has been a bone of contention since the bar opened in 2013. Complaints had been made about the size and style of the striking black and white sign, with one letter of complaint sent to Cork City Council describing it as “aesthetically vile”.

BDSM had applied for permission to retain the signage but the Council’s planning department refused the application.

The planner’s report said: “The retention of the sign would contravene stated planning policy”.

Mr McCabe confirmed there were no plans to appeal the decision, saying: “We were over optimistic with our measurements and I think it is time to take it down alright”.

He said they would ensure the replacement was “within the legal parameters in terms of size”.

“It has a wonderful frontage and we love that pub, as we love North Main Street.” Fans of the sign will be pleased to hear it is relocating rather than disappearing altogether.

“The sign itself, which we are very fond of, is going to go in the back to the beer garden.” 

The lower part of the sign, which can be adjusted to display any number of welcomes or slogans, may even get cheekier.

“The sign is dear to my heart so now that we are moving it inside we can even get more risqué with the messages,” Mr McCabe joked.