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Supermarket wins backing of planners
SUPERMARKET giant Sainsbury's has secured the backing of city planners for a controversial expansion of a Sheffield superstore.
The company's plan to expand its Archer Road store, in Millhouses, has drawn objections from 900 residents who have signed a petition highlighting concerns about increases in traffic and the effect on local businesses.
Sainsbury's wants to add a two-storey, 3,100 square metre extension, increasing floorspace at the site by 40 per cent, plus a new 66-space car park and a new glass store front facing Archer Road.
Bosses say the expansion will allow them to extend the range of products available.
They say they have made changes to their plans in light of feedback from residents and claim the expansion will create 80 new jobs.
But objections have flooded in from residents, as well as from the Carter Knowle and Millhouses Community Group and governors at Holt House School. Protesters have been backed by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and councillors Mike Reynolds, Colin France and Sylvia Dunkley.
The NHS Director of Public Health raised concerns about air pollution from increased traffic.
The council received 14 letters supporting the plans. Sainsbury's consultation received 122 letters of support.
Councillors on Sheffield's city centre, south and east planning board meet on Monday to discuss whether to grant planning permission.
They will be under pressure to throw them out - but council officers have advised them to approve the scheme.
An officer report said the expansion would "enhance the design, appearance and accessibility of the Sainsbury's store without unduly affecting the amenities of nearby residents".
Officers said the store would have a minimal impact on district shopping centres in Banner Cross, Broomhill, Ecclesall Road, Heeley, London Road and Woodseats. Any increase in traffic would be accommodated by new traffic schemes.
They said: "The Sheffield Retail Study shows that these centres are in reasonable health so this level of trade withdrawal is not likely to cause demonstrable harm."
If councillors approve the plans the application will go to Communities Secretary Eric Pickles, who has final say because of the size.
Tesco has applied to expand its nearby store off Abbeydale Road.
Councillors are expected to decide on that scheme later this summer.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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