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New store gets go-ahead

Bethan Dorsett
12/ 5/2008

UPMARKET supermarket giant Waitrose is set to build a store at a flagship estate following the green light from planning councillors.

The shop will form part of Stamford Brook, the eco-home development built on National Trust land at Broadheath.

Waitrose and Sinderland Properties had submitted a bid which was approved by the planning development control committee last Thursday.

Expected to create 150 jobs, the store will form part of a complex which will also house either a dentist surgery or a health centre. It is also likely to include either a cafe or a restaurant and three shops.

Addressing the meeting, the applicants' agent Alyn Nicholls said the firms had been working hard to form a plan that would suit the public. They also had to consult the National Trust, which maintains a degree of control over the site because Stamford Brook once formed part of the Dunham Massey estate.

"The scheme was publicised during an exhibition and the plans were presented to area forums," said Mr Nicholls.

"We also worked with the ward councillors and the police on its design. We listened to all the points raised."

In addition to the centre, the plan also includes 185 parking spaces and a pedestrian crossing near a proposed mini-roundabout joining Sinderland Road and Barlow Road.

A letter signed by nine people objecting to the plan on the grounds that it would cause increased traffic and congestion was handed in to the council.  However, planning officers have advised the developers to re-design the mini-roundabout to make sure large vehicles are able to turn without risk.

Overall, the bid was welcomed by committee members, particularly Councillor Brian Rigby. He said: "This is a very exciting development. It is also part of a jigsaw and a very important part at that.

"It is a super development and I am pleased to see it presented before us."