Newport supermarket plans rejected

A 30,000sq ft supermarket on the edge of Newport has been rejected by planning chiefs. Members of Telford & Wrekin Council's plans board voted unanimously against plans for a foodstore in Audley Avenue.

Members agreed that a proposal by St Modwen for a larger 50,000sq ft Sainsbury's on council-owned land in Station Road could be a better option.

But the final decision on the Audley Avenue site is out of the council's hands because the authority took too long to make a decision.

The final call on the Classic Developments bid will be made by the Planning Inspector at a public appeal in May.

Members were told by planning officers that Station Road would be a more suitable site for a store.

Council planning officer Gareth Thomas said: "We can say with some degree of confidence we will be able to recommend the Station Road site at some future date."

Newport Town Councillor Tim Nelson said a supermarket could harm the high street.

He said: "We do not perceive there is a need for a large store.

"What is unique and precious about Newport is not green space, the canal or even the schools.

"It is the high street, which is the widest in England. It is currently vibrant but footfall is key."

Sean McGrath, for Indigo Planning on behalf of the applicant, said at least one new supermarket in Newport was inevitable.