Storage extensions and takeaway at 71 - 73 Bromford Lane, West Bromwich

What was proposed

The application covered a retained rear storage extension, a proposed rear storage extension and an ancillary hot food takeaway use.

“DC/25/70439 – Retention of single storey rear extension for storage, proposed single storey extension for storage and addition of ancillary hot food takeaway use at no. 71 -73 Bromford Lane, West Bromwich B70 7HN”

Minutes

The site

The premises are two retail properties in a mainly residential terrace, occupied by an Asian sweet shop and a convenience store.

“The application site is situated on the north side of Bromford Lane, West Bromwich in a predominantly residential area. The application premises both have existing retail uses – no 71 is an Asian sweet shop and no 73 is a retail convenience store. Both properties are located in a row of terraced properties that are mainly used for residential living.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

Both properties have historically had retail use, and permission for an Indian sweet shop with ancillary seating was granted in 2012.

“Historically both properties have had a retail use and planning permission for the Indian sweet shop with ancillary seating area was granted in 2012.”

“DC/12/54277 Description: Proposed change of use of No.71 to Indian sweet shop with ancillary production and cooking and extraction duct to rear, new shutter and internal alterations (revised application - DC/11/53854). Decision and date: Grant permission subject to conditions. 05.04.2012.”

Officer report

What officers recommended

Officers recommended approval subject to external materials because the extensions suited the established commercial uses without harming neighbours or highway safety.

“That planning permission is granted subject to the approval of external materials.”

“The existing and proposed extensions for storage use would be acceptable in this location considering the established retail/commercial uses of the application premises. They would not harm the living conditions of neighbouring residential occupiers, with particular regard to amenity and also traffic movements/highway safety. The proposals would therefore accord with Policy ENV3 of The Black Country Core…”

Officer report

Consultation and objections

Highways raised no objection, while one neighbour objected and a nine-signature petition raised concerns about restaurant use and parking.

“The application has been publicised by eight neighbour notification letters. One objection has been received as well as a petition containing nine signatures.”

Officer report

What people said

The applicant said the extension would be storage only, while objectors raised existing parking, traffic, takeaway and rear-access concerns.

The committee’s discussion

Members were told enforcement could address use outside permission and supported approval with the recommended conditions plus a rear customer-access restriction.

“It was highlighted that enforcement action could be taken if the applicant was to operate the premises outside of any planning permission. Members were happy with the recommendations and were minded to approve the application, subject to the conditions recommended by the Executive Director-Place as well as an extra condition restricting customer access to the rear of the property.”

Minutes

The decision

The committee approved the application with conditions covering external materials, storage-only use, construction hours and customer access from the front only.

“Resolved that Planning Application DC/25/70439 – 71 – 73 Bromford Lane, West Bromwich B70 7HN (Retention of single storey rear extension for storage, proposed single storey extension for storage and addition of ancillary hot food takeaway use) is approved, subject to conditions relating to:-”

Minutes