Plans for store opposed in report

Plans to build a supermarket in Whitchurch are set to be shattered next week because planners say there is not enough need for it.

A proposal by food giants Aldi Stores and Gemuspa Ltd for a store on the Waymills industrial estate is expected to be turned down at a planning meeting on Wednesday.

Plans to go before district councillors at the meeting involve the store being built in place of two units on the site which were approved by North Shropshire District Council last May.

The store, which would be located at Meadow View on the estate, would also be expected to create dozens of jobs.

Letters of objection from residents claim it would generate an increase in traffic and would have a negative impact on local businesses.

A report to go before councillors reads: “The local planning authority considers that a qualitative and quantitative need for the proposed development has not been demonstrated. In the absence of any need for the development, the turnover from the store will principally derive from the diversion of turnover away from existing foodstores in Whitchurch, and as such would have an adverse impact on the vitality and viability of the existing town shopping centre.”

The report also claims the design of the store is not in keeping with the local area.

The development control meeting, where a decision on the store is expected, will take place on Wednesday at Edinburgh House, New Street, Wem, from 2pm.