Shopping centre redevelopment appeal hearing ends

A planning inquiry into a council's rejection of a town centre redevelopment has been adjourned.

West Berkshire Council's planning committee rejected the proposal for a residential and retail development with more than 400 flats at the Kennet Shopping Centre in Newbury, and an appeal into the decision began on 4 June.

Those for and against made their closing statements to the inspector on Thursday, before it was adjourned for two weeks for additional paperwork to be submitted.

Planning inspector Richard Aston will make his ruling in August.

The proposals would see 427 buy-to-rent flats built, as well as a new street linking the town centre to the station.

Both conservationists and Newbury Town Council raised "serious concerns" about the effect on the townscape of the height and scale of the proposed development, and urged the inspector to dismiss the appeal.

Gary Norman from the town council pointed out that an alternative scheme, which has not yet been heard by the council, had "received broad support".

"The town centre deserves a scheme that enhances the public realm, supports a vibrant local economy, and responds sensitively to its unique historic context," he said.

The plans were turned down by councillors against the advice of officers - something they are entitled in law to do.

The council's heritage expert also went against the previous officer recommendations, saying the development would "cause harm" to the character of Newbury.

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