Protesters set to block Tesco store

An application for a new mini supermarket on the corner of Springvale Road and Howard Road, near Walkley, led to more than 800 complaints from residents fearing problems for parking and pedestrians.

Now a report to next Tuesday's Sheffield Council West and North Planning and Highways Area Board is recommending the plan be refused, on the grounds it could lead to an increase in on-street parking and put the safety of road users at risk.

Officers also say the proposed design of the store is unsatisfactory and would be out of keeping with the area.

They also say there would not be enough room for deliveries to be safely made.

An 809-name petition has been submitted to planning chiefs insisting another shop is not needed, and could spell closure for many existing businesses.

Another 113 letters of objection have been sent and there has been opposition from local councillors.

The site used to be a petrol station but the buildings have been cleared and the plot is currently vacant.

Tesco wants to build a single-storey store with four off-street parking spaces and two cycle spaces. The firm says it would provide jobs for 30 part-time staff and that there would be three to five deliveries a day.

There have been several aborted plans for the plot over the past few years. In 2003 planning permission was refused for eight study apartments providing around 30 bedrooms.

A report to Tuesday's meeting says: "It is considered the proposal would provide insufficient off-street car parking provision, poor access arrangements and a lack of on-site space for accepting service deliveries to the detriment of highway safety and contrary to policy."

Got a view? Add your comments below.