We don’t need this store here

The application was refused mainly due to the car park being insufficient in size and of poor design. However and more importantly, it was also objected on the grounds that the store would significantly impact the vitality and viability of the local retail area (UAP3 condition (e) for those of you who are familiar with planning policy).

Why is rejection on UAP3 important? It’s important because it is part of setting the tone for what we want to see for Old Town Leamington.

I believe this application, if successful, would of had a detrimental impact on the 98 per cent of independent retailers in Old Town - a statistic we should be proud of. With the Mary Portas project we now have a great opportunity to create a vibrant mix of retail and community in Old Town.

I believe in Old Town we have been clear on what we don’t want i.e. this application or sex entertainment venues however, we now need to be clear on what we do want! - watch this space. - Cllr Gurpreet Dulay, Willes Ward, Leamington Town Council.