Company appeals against refusal to drive-through plans on former Dews Garage site

Hallmark Developments (North West) Limited wanted to demolish the existing buildings, at Dews Motor Group Limited Northgate, to build two drive through coffee shops or restaurants with car parking and ancillary retail sales.

But last May the council refused permission because the development was considered not to preserve the setting of the nearby listed buildings and character and appearance of the adjacent Town Centre Conservation Area in line with its planning guidelines.

The council also considered the proposal would not ensure safe movement by pedestrians, vehicles and cyclists, also against its guidelines.

Now the company has appealed to the Secretary of State for the Environment against the decision and the Secretary of State has decided to hold an informal hearing to deal with the appeal at a date yet to be arranged.

Because of Covid 19 restrictions, the Planning Inspectorate proposes to hold a virtual hearing.

Views on the proposal can be submitted via the council’s Planning Portal at www.planningportal.gov.uk/pcs or by email to

[email protected].

Anyone wishing to submit their views other than by internet acces can do so by sending three copies to The Planning Inspectorate, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6PN, by March 25.

All representations must quote APP/A4710/W/20/3261625 – the appeal reference number.

The Inspector will arrange a site visit as part of the appeal process and there is normally no need for other people to take part in the site visit.

However, if you own a property nearby and you want the Inspector to see the appeal site from your property, you must write to the Inspector at the above address to request this, says the council.

You will then receive a letter confirming the date and time of the visit but will not be able to discuss the case.

However, you can point out the relevant facts and features, says the authority.