Controversial convenience store plans go to appeal

Proposals to build a shop in Brummel Road, Speen, could still go ahead despite being refused

CONTROVERSIAL plans to build a convenience store yards away from a busy school and pub in Speen will go to appeal.

West Berkshire Council refused the application for a new shop by The Starting Gate pub, describing it as an “inappropriate development” that would be out of keeping with the surrounding area.

More than 500 people – many of them parents of children who attend the adjacent Robert Sandilands School – signed a petition objecting to the plans, claiming it would increase traffic flow around the school, make parking more difficult and have a negative impact on the local shop, Brummel Road Stores.

However, the pub’s owner, Punch Taverns, has lodged an appeal that will be heard a government-appointed planning inspector.

Newbury town councillors had previously unanimously objected to the plans, saying it would increase traffic around an already busy area.

They also expressed concerns about the lack of parking spaces and deliveries causing disruption to local traffic.

There are currently 45 parking spaces outside the pub, but there will only be a total of 28 spaces for both the shop and pub to share if plans for the store are approved on appeal.

Punch Taverns says it wants to build the store as a way of “securing the pub’s long-term future”, adding that a shop would “enhance competition” in the area and offer people the choice of shopping somewhere different.

The appeal will be heard by way of written representations.