The ability of communities to prevent damaging supermarket development will be tested in a key public inquiry which starts today (Tuesday 1 July) near the Norfolk town of Sheringham. The result could have implications for the future of supermarket development right across the country says the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE). [1]

Tesco will be challenging a decision made in December 2007 by North Norfolk District Councillors, who unanimously rejected an application to redevelop a site on the edge of Sheringham town centre. [2] 

‘This is a crucial moment in the struggle by local people to decide for themselves what kind of place they will live in and how their town develops in the future,’ said Tom Oliver, Head of Rural Policy at CPRE.

‘This case is about having a real choice, and not allowing big business to dominate peoples’ way of life,’ Tom Oliver continued. [3]

The inquiry, which starts today and is expected to last three weeks, is the latest stage in a ten year planning battle, with Tesco’s application facing strong and sustained opposition from many of the town’s 7,000 residents. 

CPRE is supporting residents and local campaign groups in opposition to the development.  Ian Shepherd, Planning Policy Co-ordinator at CPRE Norfolk, will be giving evidence at the inquiry.

Ian Shepherd said:

‘This public inquiry could be critical, not just for the future of Sheringham, but as a case study for other inappropriate and unwelcome supermarket developments. [4] 

‘Residents and councillors of Sheringham have consistently expressed their opposition to Tesco’s proposal and with good cause.  A new supermarket could cause very serious damage to the vitality and viability of the town centre.  The small independent retailers, which give Sheringham so much of its appeal and character, could suffer, as well as the wider Norfolk economy, including local suppliers and tourism,’ Ian Shepherd concluded.

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NOTES FOR EDITORS

1. CPRE, the Campaign to Protect Rural England, is a charity which promotes the beauty, tranquillity and diversity of rural England. We advocate positive solutions for the long-term future of the countryside. Founded in 1926, we have 60,000 supporters and a branch in every county. President: Bill Bryson. Patron: Her Majesty The Queen. www.cpre.org.uk

2.  North Norfolk District Council rejected a planning application by Tesco to build a 1,500 sqm store on the Cromer Road in Sheringham by 17 votes to nil on 22 November 2007.

3.  CPRE’s report The Real Choice, shows how damaging supermarkets can be to local economies and how market towns and their surrounding villages benefit from a wider range of smaller businesses and retail outlets.   http://www.cpre.org.uk/library/results/local-foods

4.  The Government’s Planning White Paper published in May 2007 stated within paragraph 7.50-7.56 that ‘the needs test has proved to be a blunt instrument…and can reduce consumer choice’.  There is a clear implication that the Government’s forthcoming revision of Planning Policy Statement 6 Planning for Town Centres could abolish or reduce the power of the needs test for new supermarket applications. CPRE and others are campaigning to ensure the retention of the needs test.