An unusual planning application for a 20ft blimp to fly above an electrical store in Martlesham Heath has been submitted.

The branch of Hughes which recently moved into a new unit in Martinsyde, off Beardmore Park, lodged the plans this month it which it aims to erect a 20ft blimp above the store.

The plans state that it aims to put it up at the beginning of August with the application proposing to have it flying for 12 months.

The blimp will have the firm’s branding on both sides, and is 20ft long (6m) and 8ft high (2.4m).

The unusual application is currently in the consultation phase, with a public site notice having been put up as it “may affect archaeological site”.

It is understood that flying a blimp less than 200ft (60m) means planning permission is not needed, but many councils ask for advertising consent for longer term use.

There are not anticipated to be any air traffic issues.