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Clash over retail plan for Cradlehall site


By Iain Ramage



Cradlehall planning
Cradlehall planning

COUNCILLORS have been directed to reject proposals for more shops in Cradlehall.

Planning officials say a proposed development within the "neighbourhood centre" at Cradlehall Court and, in particular, the vehicle access to it would not blend in with the local environment.

A strongly worded report emphasises that the purpose of the planning system is to "achieve the right development in the right place" and not at "any" cost.

A briefing to the council’s south planning committee says applicant Sean Kelly’s vision would contravene the region’s development plan.

Cradlehall and Westhill Community Council supports the "in principal" planning application. The council’s forestry officer opposes it on the basis of tree loss.

The council’s development plan team says "alternative retail and business sites exist elsewhere in the city".

The report states there is "no proven need" for additional retail provision at the location, which adjoins an existing shopping centre.

The applicant said land ownership issues prevented use of an existing access from Caulfield Road via Cradlehall Court to the 1.2-acre site.

His alternative is a new access from Caulfield Road.

A spokesman for Mr Kelly said: "The proposal is consistent with the local plan.The only available access has been agreed by the council’s transport advisers. It’s a proposal for important community facilities which is supported by the community council."

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