Panti has won her epic battle with An Bord Pleanála, who have granted permission for Pantibar’s neon sign to stay.

“Absolutely DELIGHTED to say we won our appeal and An Bord Pleanála have granted permission for the Pantibar sign to stay!” Panti posted on Facebook this morning.

“In the decision they agree that “exceptional circumstances” apply and that “the sign is integral to the social, historical and cultural significance of the current use of the premises”.

Thanks to everyone for their support!”

Complaints were made to Dublin City Council (DCC) over the summer about the Pantibar sign – which was erected in March 2015 in advance of the marriage equality vote – calling for the LED-illuminated sign to be removed.

The complainants, the Victory Christian Fellowship, objected to the sign on the grounds that it was “unsightly” and that insufficient planning permission had been sought in advance of its erection.

Panti responded to these complaints saying she would “appealing this neanderthal decision, and fighting it tooth and acrylic nail.”

“There is nothing cheap or thoughtless about any of Pantibar’s visual communication. I love good design, I love Capel Street. I love Dublin (and wish it weren’t blighted by cheap signage that adds nothing to the cityscape). And I fucking LOVE our beautiful sign.”

Bar-owner Panti submitted a petition with 19,000 signatures calling for the sign’s salvation to An Bord Pleanála in July.

Even The Iona Institute’s David Quinn came out in support of the sign, saying: “Perhaps this will surprise some, but I reckon the sign outside the Pantibar should be allowed to remain in place.”

Congrautlations to Panti, David Quinn and all who petitioned on behalf of the sign!