Tesco has won the latest round in its fight for a controversial
superstore and retail development in the west end of Glasgow.
The report of a public local inquiry, published yesterday, has
decided in favour of the supermarket giant.
The plan is for a 6500-square-metre superstore as well as
accommodation for 653 students, 220 private flats and leisure
facilities on a large tract of derelict land at Beith Street, close
to Partick Cross.
Opponents of the scheme claimed the proposal was too large. They
also argued it would have a detrimental effect on existing shops on
nearby Byres Road and Dumbarton Road, and that it was contrary to
the city's development plan.
However, the inquiry reporter, John Culshaw, after considering
the arguments, has issued a 23-page report in which he says the
mixed-use proposal should be granted.
At the same time, the inquiry was also considering a separate
application for a stand-alone Tesco superstore, which he
rejected.
Campaigners have said they are stunned by the decision, and hope
it can yet be halted.
Tesco still faces a hurdle to the plan as land essential for
access to the residential element of the development was recently
sold to Glasgow Harbour, which opposed the supermarket scheme and
have plans for their own retail development at nearby South Street.
Both parties submitted bids to Glasgow City Council but it is
thought Tesco would need to obtain the land from Glasgow Harbour if
they are to go ahead.
Sensitivities in the housing market could also affect the
private residential flats, with builders reluctant to start any new
developments.
The inquiry considered the effects on the environment,
compatibility with the local development plan, impact on local
retail and design issues.
In his decision, Mr Culshaw said: "There is no doubt that the
redevelopment of this important but currently unsightly derelict
site would contribute to the regeneration process.
Mr Culshaw concluded: "I do not doubt that the comparison non
food goods sold at the proposed store would provide competition for
some of the existing retailers, but the prevention of competition
is not an aim of planning policy."
"It seems to me that the provision of additional retailing
facilities within close walking distance of the town centre would
have a beneficial effect on its attractiveness to shoppers, which
would be likely to counteract any potential harm caused by direct
competition."
Campaigners against the development were angered by the
decision.
Gordon Bickerton, of Stop Tesco Owning Partick, who were
represented at the inquiry, said: I am astonished. This decision is
unbelievable."
Local councillor Aileen Colleran said: "I am disappointed
because I felt the case against Tesco was very strong."
Reproduced with the permission of The Evening Times(Glasgow) ©
Newsquest (Herald & Times) Ltd.