Noise from store would inconvenience locals, say planners

Applicants Northgate Assets wanted to build on land opposite Horse and Tiger pub on Brook Hill, Thorpe Hesley.

The store was planned to have two levels, with sales on the ground floor and back-of-house in a basement. Opening hours were set to be 6am to 11pm daily.

The application attracted 106 letters from residents. Many said there was already enough provision, with two village stores.

Others raised concerns about traffic, parking and potential flood risk if the drainage system became overwhelmed.

Northgate Assets said the store would improve the choice of goods on offer in the village by adding a “modern, new retail environment”.

The plans added: “The provision of a convenience store in this location will be a positive addition to local facilities in the area, reducing the need to travel for convenience goods.

“Furthermore, the development is not considered to have an unacceptable impact of highway safety or a severe impact on the road network.”

But Rotherham Council refused planning permission, saying the development in such a prominent location would have a “poor relationship” with neighbouring properties.

A spokesperson added: “The proposal, by virtue of its size, scale, form, design, appearance and siting, would fail to take the opportunities available for improving the character of the area.

“It would also have an adverse effect on the setting of the adjacent Thorpe Hesley Conservation Area.

“The council considers that the proposed food store would be in conflict with the predominantly residential surroundings by introducing a use which would lead to unacceptable levels of noise nuisance and general disturbance to local residents during the evening and night time hours.”

A safe and suitable access for all site users was not guaranteed by the plans, RMBC added.