Shipston supermarket plans rejected

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SUPERMARKET plans for Shipston have been rejected.

Stratford District Council planning committee east voted against the proposed development by Ainscough Strategic Land

on land off Campden Road on the edge of the town. The application included a supermarket and petrol station, together with 54 new homes, a retirement care home, and a community centre being built.

The meeting, held at Shipston High School, was well-attended by townspeople keen to see if the plans, which has split opinion in the town, would be given the green light.

Following the rejection Coun Jeff Kenner, who has long been in favour of the plans, told the Observer: "We understand an appeal is being considered because Shipston really needs a supermarket and we genuinely believe it will help people in the town.

"We got that message across but the committee chose to listen to those who were against the plans. It's not over - I feel very positive and the campaign goes on."

But Coun Simon Jackson, chairman of the planning committee, said: "This is the way the planning process works - the decision is made and that's the democratic way.

"There were two main reasons why the plans were rejected. Firstly the impact the development would have on land which is in fact countryside outside Stratford. There was also concern the supermarket would have detrimental affect on businesses in the town centre.

Talking about a potential appeal, he added: "That's a decision for the developers but if they decide to go ahead with that, the issue will be addressed as and when."

Anti-supermarket campaign group Shipston Heart Alive (SHAC) had voiced concerns about thepossible impact a supermarket would have on existing traders in the town centre.

But rival group Shipston Needs a Supermarket (SNAS) argued residents should not have to travel miles to do their weekly shop.

We are awaiting comments from SHAC and the developers.

More to follow.

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