Controversial Co-op set for refusal
A supermarket scheme proposed for Kings Norton, Birmingham, is being touted for refusal by council officers. More than 100 objections were received in response to the plans submitted by the Midlands Co-operative Society amid fears for jobs and businesses.
Applicants Midland Co-Operative Society and Spirit Group Retail are proposing to demolish the Navigation Inn public house on Wharf Road and build the Co-operative supermarket on the site.
A store totalling 6,888 sq ft is planned alongside a 3,207 sq ft warehouse and a car park with 65 spaces.
Birmingham City Council's planning committee will vote on the scheme on Thursday (22 December) after officers recommended planning permission be refused.
A total of 106 concerns were raised from businesses and residents regarding the impact on local trade.
"Some of these small businesses are already struggling to survive in the current climate," wrote one resident. "There could also be an adverse effect on the local farmers' market."
Other objections read: "The closure of local stores will have a negative impact on the character of the area and threaten the long term viability of the historic centre. It will act as a catalyst to downgrade the whole of the area.
"Shops will be boarded up, family-run businesses will fold and crime rates increase as the area becomes more deprived."
The Kings Norton location is a tourist attraction, having been mentioned in the Doomsday Book, which was noted in several objections to the scheme.
Other concerns raised noted that there are already a number of small supermarkets in the vicinity, including five Co-ops within a three mile radius.
Describing the design of the plans as "unacceptable", the officers' report said the proposed appearance "does not reflect architectural character of conservation area; it is a stereotypical, contemporary solution of a national retail company".
Alongside the poor quality of the design, officers said that "inadequate information" was submitted on the effects the proposal would have on the highway network.
The council's planning committee will give its verdict on the scheme on Thursday (22 December).
