Developer appeals against rejection of plan for drive-thru
PLANNING APPLICATION SPARKED PROTESTS LAST YEAR
REJECTED plans to build a drive-thru Burger King on the site of a former Newcastle police station could yet be resurrected.
The developer behind controversial efforts to open a fast food restaurant at the disused West End police station has launched an appeal against city councillors’ decision to strike down the project.
Hadrian Property Investments’ plans for the Westgate Road site, which also included 15 flats, two shops and a dental surgery, were unanimously rejected by Newcastle City Council’s planning committee in September.
Opponents of the scheme, which had even sparked protests outside the empty station last year, complained that the Burger King would worsen obesity problems in the West End and that the added traffic for a drive-thru would cause even more congestion on the busy road.
But the firm has now appealed to the government’s planning inspectorate to reverse the decision.
In appeal documents lodged with the council, agents Hedley Planning Services claim that the developer “was not afforded reasonable time to address concerns” and that the decision was made without them “being offered the opportunity to present material in support in a fair and balanced manner”.
They added that the police station is “in a state of disrepair and the existing building currently detracts from the character of the area”, saying the redevelopment would “deliver the regeneration of a key parcel of land upon the Westgate Road”.
The developer insists that the proposals would “not result in queues forming on to the high
way or cause any significant detriment to highway safety”, while also arguing that Burger King’s menu offers a “balanced” range of food including healthy meals.
The statement adds: “The proposals have the potential to provide 15 fulltime and 10 part-time jobs and 30 jobs during construction. The proposed investment value is £1.3m for the site.
“It is forecast that the new scheme would generate more than £250,000 in tax revenue for the City Council.
“The proposed development will act as a stimulus to the local economy, creating significant new employment and associated economic benefits.
“The Appellant has demonstrated the scheme represents a significant and much needed financial investment in the North East economy in general and the West End of Newcastle in particular.”
The plans were described as a “complete non-starter” at September’s committee hearing, with dozens of residents, several West End councillors, and city MP Chi Onwurah all objecting.
The West End Residents’ Association said it would “continue to fight” against the proposals if the planning inspectorate deems they are worthy of an appeal hearing.
Hadrian Property Investments has launched two separate appeals, having earlier split its plans into two separate applications – one to demolish part of the station and build the Burger King, and another to convert the remainder of the old station into new apartments, shops, and a dental surgery.
A council spokesperson confirmed: “We are aware that the applicant is appealing against the decision made by planning committee.
“We believe it was the right decision and will defend our position as part of the planning process.”