Timpson key cutting kiosk at Car Park Tesco Stores, Longwick Road, Princes Risborough

What was proposed

The application sought a Timpson key cutting kiosk on existing hardstanding beside the Tesco superstore, with services offered within the Tesco grounds.

“The site is designated within the Princes Risborough Conservation Area, Princes Risborough - Town Centre Boundary, Primary Shopping Area and within the settlement boundary. This planning application seeks the installation of a Timpson key cutting kiosk to hardstanding adjacent to Tesco superstore. The proposed retail kiosk pod would be situated on an area of existing hardstanding approximately 12 metres southeast of the main store entrance.”

Officer report

What consultees said

The archaeology officer had no objection, while the heritage officer accepted the amended proposal after illuminated signage was removed.

“Consultation Responses Archaeology Officer The nature of the proposals are such that they are unlikely to substantially harm the archaeological significance of any assets. We therefore have no objection to the proposed development and do not consider it necessary to apply a condition to safeguard archaeological interest.”

“Furthermore, the car park is already well lit and that illuminated signage is proposed on all three fascias of the kiosk. This level of illumination, however, is considered excessive in this location, particularly given that the lighting of the Tesco façade has been intentionally designed to be minimal with no lighting to the main fascia signage.”

Officer report

What people objected to

The parish council and residents raised concerns about competition, High Street vitality, parking capacity, congestion, safety, appearance and further similar development.

“Representations One neutral comment has been received 41 comments have been received objecting to the proposal: • Development would harm the vitality and viability of Princes Risborough High Street, by diverting trade and footfall away from existing town centre businesses • Established independent key cutting and shoe repair business in the High Street, which adequately serve local needs and form an important part of the community • Proposal in direct competition with…”

“Proposal represents duplication of existing services, rather than addressing any unmet demand • Capacity of the Tesco car park is frequently at or near full capacity, with existing congestion and circulation problems • Kiosk would reduce available parking spaces and may also increase demand, exacerbating congestion and highway safety issues both within the car park and on the surrounding road network • Concerns regarding pedestrian safety within the car park, including…”

Officer report

Who spoke

Councillors Gary Hall and Matthew Walsh spoke as ward members, and Laurence Piper spoke as the agent.

The committee vote

Councillor A Alam proposed the decision and Councillor M West seconded it.

“It was proposed by Councillor A Alam and seconded by Councillor M West…”

Minutes

What the committee decided

The committee granted conditional permission subject to the conditions and informatives in the officer’s report.

“Resolved: that conditional permission be granted subject to the conditions and informatives as set out in the officer’s report.”

Minutes