Demolition of existing buildings on former Burway Abattoir site and erection of proposed petrol filling station and ancillary convenience store with new vehicular access (revised scheme).

The Principal Planner introduced the application and with reference to the drawings displayed, he drew Members’ attention to the location.  He confirmed that Members had undertaken a site visit that morning and had viewed the site and assessed the impact of the proposal on the surrounding area.

Members noted the additional information as set out in the Schedule of Additional Letters circulated prior to the meeting which detailed comments from Councillor Boddington.

Mr P Fenwick, the agent, spoke for the proposal in accordance with the Council’s Scheme for Public Speaking at Planning Committees.

Mr Fenwick confirmed that the applicant had agreed to fund the provision of a pedestrian crossing in an appropriate location as agreed with Shropshire Council’s Highways.   In response to questions from Members, Mr Fenwick provided clarification on the proposed number of petrol pumps and type of delivery vehicles. 

In accordance with the Local Protocol for Councillors and Officers dealing with Regulatory Matters (Part 5, Paragraph 15.1) Councillor Andy Boddington, as local Ward Councillor, made a statement and then left the room, took no part in the debate and did not vote on this item.  During his statement, the following points were raised:

·         He acknowledged the need for a petrol station in Ludlow but expressed concerns regarding the location and drew attention to the comments of Shropshire Council’s Conservation Officer set out in the report;

·         He had previously expressed concerns regarding the petrol tanks but acknowledged that they would be the most robust and safe tanks that could be provided; and

·         His main concern was with pedestrian safety.  The results of a brief pedestrian survey had found that 250 schoolchildren passed this site on their way to and from school.  The proposal would provide a “tuck-shop” on the wrong side of the road and the children would naturally want to cross the road towards it.  Prior to any permission being granted appropriate pedestrian safety measures must be agreed.  A light controlled pedestrian crossing, pedestrian barriers/railings, and a pedestrian refuge was needed in appropriate locations along Bromfield Road and Coronation Avenue.

In the ensuing debate, Members considered the submitted plans and noted the comments of all speakers and Officers.  In response to questions, the Area Highways Development Control Manager (South) provided clarification on traffic flows, confirmed that the proposed contribution from the applicant would be sufficient to provide for a zebra crossing but not a light controlled crossing and conditions to control access arrangements would be attached to any permission.  The Principal Planner reiterated that works to ensure pedestrian safety would be controlled by a Section 278 Agreement; and appropriate pre-commencement conditions relating to lighting, landscaping, access etc. and conditions as suggested by the Public Protection team would be attached to any permission.  Members expressed concern with regard to pedestrian safety; questioned the sufficiency of the proposed funding to cover appropriate pedestrian safety measures; expressed concern regarding the proposed number of parking spaces; and reiterated the need for sensitive and appropriate signage.

RESOLVED:

That this application be deferred in order for the applicant to give consideration to the location and provision of an appropriate pedestrian crossing, provide more information on the sufficiency of the car parking, and to review opening hours.