A bid to overturn a planning decision and allow a garden centre to errect a cover over its sales area in Long Melford’s conservation area has been thrown out at appeal.
In April last year, Babergh’s planning officers rejected an application by QD Stores Ltd to build a covered outdoor sales area with curved roof bays and trelliswork at its High Street garden centre.
Officers decided not to allow the development as the proposals contradicted Babergh’s Local Plan, which states any extensions of existing buildings in a conservation area should preserve and enhance the character of the conservation area and should be of appropriate scale, form and detailed design to harmonise with its setting, using appropriate materials.
A decision by The Planning Inspectorate was released this week and backed Babergh’s refusal of the application by dismissing the appeal.
David Harrison, from the Inspectorate, said in his decision papers the form of the proposed structure would be completely at odds with the long established buildings on the site.
He added that the proposed design was quite wrong in the context of Long Melford’s conservation area.
Nick Ward , Babergh’s Chief Planning Control Officer, said: “We are pleased that the Council’s approach has been vindicated by an external, independent planning inspector.
“Babergh wants to encourage local shops and businesses to thrive and prosper and is always willing to explore possible solutions with businesses before planning applications are submitted.” ENDS
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