Go-ahead for new Co-op food store

It was a night of big decisions for Ashford Borough Council’s planning councillors last Wednesday as they considered a raft applications for major developments in and around the town. In this special feature Aidan Barlow reports on the outcomes

Plans for a new Co-Op foodstore at Godinton Park were given the green light by the council’s planning committee, despite concerns over parking and traffic.

The new 3,000 sq ft store will be built between the village hall and the New Chimneys pub in Loudon Way on the estate.

Marrons Planning director Brian Mullin spoke as an agent on behalf of the store, and said the new shop could create 15 full time jobs and boost the local area.

He said: “Most of the customers will be expected to visit on foot within a 400 metre radius, so the store will provide greater customer choice and will retain retail spending in the local area.

“The Co-Op has 4,000 stores nationwide and works very hard to maintain its reputation as a good neighbour.”

But the plans faced strong opposition from local residents who fear the loss of 30 car parking spaces which parents at the nearby Godinton Primary School are encouraged to use to collect or drop off their children.

Both Godinton ward councillors Peter Feacey and Bernard Heyes raised concerns about traffic safety for children crossing Loudon Way, and said at peak times it could lead to further parking on the roads.

Cllr Heyes said: “Loudon Way already has problems, so if this is approved it would create serious road safety issues.

“There is a strong possibility of traffic accidents occurring. I would like to see the developer make contributions to traffic calming measures before building work is started.”

But a council officer replied that the land is privately owned, hence there is no requirement for the landowner to keep the spaces open for parents on the school run.

Meanwhile dozens of residents pointed out that there are already Sainsbury’s and Waitrose stores within a mile, and a food store already in the nearby parade of shops on the estate.

But members of the planning committee voted by 12 votes to two in favour of the plans, with Cllr Heyes and Cllr Wedgbury voting against.

What do you think? Write to Kentish Express, 34-36 North Street, Ashford, TN24 8JR or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk

The new 3,000 sq ft store will be built between the village hall and the New Chimneys pub