Planners say yes to Waitrose

Despite a 156 page report recommending refusal of the planning application for a proposed Waitrose Food Store on the cricket ground in Wimborne, planners have voted in favour of it.

The special meeting to determine the application was held on 29 September at the Allendale Centre.  The venue was full to capacity (300) well before the start of the meeting and those who couldn’t get into the hall listened to the proceedings on loudspeakers.

After a lengthy introduction by Mike Hirsh, East Dorset District Council’s Head of Planning & Building Control, fourteen speakers were given five minutes each to put their case. Seven against and seven for; including Waitrose MD, Mark Price. 

Philip Atlay, Chairmain of Keep Wimborne Town Green made a plea for refusal saying that the cricket ground contributes to the ambience of the town.  He also suggested that the proposed supermarket would cause a flooding issue. 

Wimborne Minster & District Chamber of Trade Chairman, Malcolm Angel and Gary Holman from Holmans split their five minutes to put a case for the development.  Gary Holman said,  “Wimborne is dying on its feet.  I implore the planners to pass this proposal.” 

When everyone had spoken, a short recess was called before the planning committee reached their decision.  Eight councillors voted to grant permission in principal, four voted against, there was one abstention and two councillors were not permitted to vote. 

Cllr Pat Hymers and Cllr Don Wallace, had declared an interest and though they were allowed to speak, the rules prevented them from voting and they had to leave the building.  Cllr Pat Hymers put forward a case for Waitrose, whereas Cllr Don Wallace spoke on behalf of 60% his Colehill electorate against the decision.

The resolution passed by the planning committee reads:

The committee resolve to grant permission in principle subject to a Sect 106 Agreement and planning conditions in general accordance with the points raised in the planning committee representations to be reported in detail to a future meeting of the town planning committee and in addition further points to be considered:

Design of the elevation and roads - Rowlands Hill
Landscaping detail
Noise
Also subject to the Secretary of State not calling in the application for determination by the government.

The application will, however, have to be submitted to the Secretary of State because the proposed development does not form part of the local plan.