Farm shop at Great Shefford gets planning permission

Great Shefford is to get a new farm shop.

Plans submitted by the owners of The Great Shefford pub for the shop in the car park have been approved by West Berkshire Council.

The proposal was finally approved, having previously been rejected, with concerns over the future of the post office in the village cited.

“Any more competition for the garage/shop and the village shop and post office in Great Shefford could put both businesses at risk,” said East Garston Parish Council.

“This would inconvenience East Garston residents who use both on a regular basis. Our own post office in East Garston closed in August 2019 and we are advised by the Post Office there is no solution to it reopening.

“The closure of another post office in the valley entails longer journeys for residents many who are elderly to obtain these facilities.”

While some locals objected to the plans fearing additional traffic and parking issues, others showed their support.

“One hundred per cent support this positive enhancement to our village,” wrote Jackie Langford.

“This is also a positive for our community pub in diversifying in difficult times to stay in this business.

"Well done for this fantastic initiative.

"Please listen to these positive comments.

"This is what our village needs without encroaching on any other business.”