In terms of Village Centre decline, one of the biggest blows was the closing of the Village Butcher. Not just the loss of a long standing business but even less variety in the types of shops in the Centre.
Although interest was shown in the empty property by several businessmen eventually a planning application was submitted for it to become a Hot Food Take Away.
This raised all kinds of objections relating to increased litter, parking issues, another focus for disaffected youth and anti-social behaviour as well as competition with existing food outlets.
Several local business people organised a protest against the plans
Fortunately, when I was Chairman of the Planning Committee, I promoted a new Planning condition for this kind of application - that there could be no more than 2 Take Aways within a 75 metre area.
The application went to the full Planning Committee when I took the opportunity to speak at length against it.
The Planning Committee refused the application.
Job done.
Since then a Carpet and Flooring shop has opened up in the premises with a particularly attractive window display which enhances the look of the Centre.
Much better - and a different kind of shop.
Sean
Any comments - electseanhornby@hotmail.co.uk
Promoted by Paul Richardson 24 Ripon Close Little Lever BL3 1EQ on behalf of Sean Hornby 33 Williams St Little Lever BL3 1LQ.
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