Green Light For Sainsbury's

Sainsbury's have been given the go-ahead to build a new supermarket in Hartham Lane, following a public enquiry in September.

The decision by the Secretary of State comes a year and a week after planning permission was granted by the District Council last year.

Whilst recognising concerns about congestion, the Secretary endorsed a report that concluded that traffic levels would be no greater than the current morning rush-hour.

Maria Stasiak, on behalf of the Secretary of State said: "it is undoubtedly desirable that efficient use is made of this largely derelict, previously developed site. He [The Secretary] considers that one of the principal benefits of the proposal is its potential to contribute to the vitality of the town, which has been characterised as being vulnerable to decline, by increasing footfall in the town centre. He has given significant weight to this. He has also given significant weight to the opportunity the proposal presents of bringing back into beneficial use a historic building for which it would be difficult to find other uses; and to the enhancement of the Conservation Area which would result from the development. Overall, the Secretary of State concludes that these benefits outweigh the conflict with the development plan and national policy on transportation matters."