Croydon Council rejects controversial plan for a Lidl store in Hamsey Green |
- Published: Thursday, 07 November 2013 00:35
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On Thursday 24th October Croydon Planning Officers voted to refuse the planning application submitted by Lidl to build a supermarket on the site previously occupied by The Good Companions pub in Hamsey Green. Over 30 local residents and their children went into Croydon to attend the meeting in the Town Hall in Katherine Street. Their major concern was for the likely traffic problems and danger to local schoolchildren the proposed new store would cause. Speaking against the application were local Croydon Councillor Lynn Hale, the leader of Surrey County Council, David Hodge and campaign leader Paul Redington. After the meeting Paul said: "Despite Croydon's planning team misguidedly recommending approval, the Planning Committee unanimously rejected the plans. It was a victory not only for the local community but for common sense." Lidl had improved its access and changed the design of the store to try and address the issues raised by local residents at a public consultation before the planning application was submitted. However, at the Planning Meeting it was clear that a big issue was access. The plan to place another junction in the middle of others and close to a bus stop was deemed "unbelieveable" and "very dangerous". One committee member said: "We must not allow this to happen". Paul added: "Hamsey Green doesn't need or want a supermarket, and the traffic and hazards it will bring particularly to the neighbouring schools and their pupils. However, whilst we have won the battle the war isn't over as Lidl can appeal. We will be ready if they do." |