Housing preferred over retail

Plans for a retail development of six units on Northgate, Newark, were opposed by councillors on Tuesday.

The application by Newark Property Developments Ltd is subject to an appeal against non-determination meaning Newark and Sherwood District Council planning committee cannot decide the application at this stage.

Members were told they could still discuss it and agreed they were minded to refuse it.

Director of growth Mr Colin Walker recommended it be approved subject to 30 conditions, including the restriction of the use of four of the units to bulky goods, such as furniture and electrical appliances, to help protect the vitality and viability of the town centre.

He said the site, next to former brewery buildings, previously had permission for 189 homes but the development stalled because of market conditions.

He said the applicants said it was unlikely to recommence in the near future because of uncertainty in the housing market.

Mr Walker said the latest application was speculative with the end users unknown, but it was estimated that it would bring about 100 full-time equivalent jobs.

“Subject to the imposition of restrictive conditions the viability and vitality of the town centre would not be harmed to a point that would warrant refusal,” he said.

Newark Civic Trust objected and said it was their understanding that the area would be developed for housing and felt that was the best use for it.

The trust said it was surprised the largest unit was designated as a retail food outlet because of the many national food stores already in the area.

Newark Business Club said it normally welcomed proposals with the potential to create employment. However, it said in this case members did not feel retail use was appropriate and would contradict national and local policies aimed at protecting the vitality of town centres.

Mrs Irene Brown, on behalf of the town council, said they wanted the site used for housing and were concerned a retail development could undermine the long-term future of the town centre.

The district council leader, Mr Roger Blaney, said the site was earmarked for housing.

He said if it was used for retail alternative housing land would have to be found.

Mrs Linda Tift said the site was perfect for housing, and Newark was already well provided for from a retail point of view.

“I see no need for this application. I cannot support it,” she said.