Developers behind plans to build a new M&S food hall at Norcross, Lancashire, have responded to a significant public reaction, outlining their solutions to address community concerns.
Developers behind ambitious plans to build a new Marks & Spencer ( M&S ) food hall at Norcross have responded to a significant public reaction, addressing a number of concerns raised about the project. The proposal, submitted to Wyre planners in January, envisions a 'first class' M&S store at Norcross , offering 6,600 product lines. This new store aims to replace the existing M&S outlet on Victoria Road West in Cleveleys town centre, which is considered 'too small'.
The development also promises up to 50 new retail jobs for the area. Since the planning application was submitted, a considerable amount of public feedback has been received. The planning portal currently hosts 145 comments, with 78 objections, 64 in support, and 3 neutral comments. Opposition to the plans centers around several key issues. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential impact on local trade and Cleveleys town centre, the strain on nearby road infrastructure (particularly the already congested Norcross roundabout), the accessibility of the proposed store's location, and other miscellaneous issues. In addition to public comments, Stantec UK Ltd, engineering, architecture, and environmental consultants, lodged an objection on behalf of an unnamed retail client regarding the potential impact on their business. Lancashire County Highways has also voiced concerns as a planning consultee.The application seeks permission for the construction of a new retail food store, accompanied by designated car parking, servicing areas, landscaping, an electricity substation, and highway alterations.The proposed store would encompass a net sales area of 1,465 sq.m and provide 145 parking spaces. In response to the public concerns, Savills (UK) Limited, acting on behalf of applicants London Metric Retail Limited, addressed each issue raised by the public. Savills emphasizes that while objections constituted the majority of submissions, a significant portion expressed support or neutrality towards the proposal. Addressing specific concerns, Savills stated that a Flood Risk Assessment and Drainage Strategy accompanies the application, confirming a low risk of flooding from all sources and assuring that the development would not increase such risks. Regarding pollution concerns, an Air Quality Assessment was submitted, demonstrating that the projected long-term impacts of exhaust emissions from increased traffic would be 'negligible'. Traffic and congestion concerns, particularly relating to Norcross Roundabout, were acknowledged. A Transport Assessment, included in the application, analyzes the forecasted trip generation and potential impact on local highways, ensuring the network's capacity can accommodate the development. Furthermore, the assessment highlights that the existing road network has already been strengthened to accommodate the site's allocated commercial use, accounting for a greater proportion of housing than originally planned. The statement also addresses concerns regarding car park management and anti-social behavior, assuring that the proposed parking level aligns with planning policy guidance and has been approved by the Highways Officer. M&S, as the operator, is committed to preventing anti-social behavior in the car park
M&S Norcross Development Retail Planning Public Consultation Traffic Flooding Pollution
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