Tesco public inquiry into second day (From Watford Observer)

Tesco public inquiry into second day

2:40pm Thursday 17th September 2009 in News By Neil Skinner

Arguments about parking, road safety, and the impact on rival businesses dominated day two the public inquiry into Tesco’s proposed development in Croxley Green.

The company, which plans to build seven flats and a convenience store in a busy section of Watford Road, once again sought to undermine the arguments of Three Rivers District Council and the Croxley Green Residents Association (CGRA), which both oppose the scheme.

CGRA Chairman Barry Grant, who spear-headed the no campaign, was grilled by Tesco barrister Scott Lyness, over the integrity of an association survey showing “overwhelming” opposition to the scheme.

The door-to-door survey, of more than 500 residents, backed up by another traffic survey, also warned of greatly increased congestion in the surrounding area.

Mr Lyness, however, argued that far from supporting the residents’ case the survey actually supported many of Tesco’s own contentions; mainly those people so bitterly opposed to the plan would continue to support local shops, meaning that these businesses would not necessarily be damaged.

Mr Grant claimed this was a “generalisation”.

Mr Lyness also claimed the association’s survey on traffic movement supported its own contention that most shoppers living close to the site – the majority of customers – would walk or cycle to the store, meaning they would not cause additional traffic congestion.

Three Rivers District Council, which is not contesting the scheme’s influence on local shops, concentrated instead on alleged inadequacies with its car parking provision.

Council solicitor Robert Jamison argued the car park was simply too cramped to adequately accommodate shoppers, residents, and delivery lorries. Indeed, he argued that, according to Tesco’s own health and safety policy, it was potentially dangerous – as delivery lorries would often be forced reverse in a public space.

He also questioned Tesco’s inclusion of only one disabled space in its 14 customer slots – in direct contravention to the council’s legally binding local development plan. Mr Jamison asked: “Is there any special reason why, in this case, Three Rivers District Council policies should not be followed.

Tesco’s traffic consultant responded that she did not “think it necessary in this case.” She added that, according to detailed computer modelling, the flow of traffic on the already congested Watford Road would not be adversely affected, repeating the company’s plan that a new Pelican crossing (with traffic lights) be built in place of the current pedestrian crossing at the junction with Winton Approach.

Parish councillor Frank Brand, who represents Croxley North, made a more simple argument in support of the scheme; namely that it would create jobs and was desperately needed by local residents.

He described CGRA’s position as merely a “not in my back yard” rejection, dismissing many of their arguments as mere “poppy-cock.”

Mr Brand said his own informal survey of an estimated 500 plus residents showed strong support for the scheme. His candid admission that a good deal of those supporters had been canvassed in various public houses across the village provided a rare moment of laughter in an otherwise tense debate.

The inquiry will conclude tomorrow. A decision is expected in the coming weeks.