Tesco Inspectorate at Guild Hall
Tesco’s appeal against the East Area Committee’s decision to reject their applications for planning permission recently took place at the Guild Hall.
Councillor Bourke spoke against both applications.
He explained “my principal objection to a Tesco on Mill Road is that it is totally unsuited to the existing infrastructure; Mill Road is not capable of absorbing the impact it would have without causing problems for the community.”
He expressed concern about two particular aspects of Tesco’s proposal: the consequences of their delivery system, and the impact on parking in the area. “A large number of spaces would be lost from the site and its surroundings, in a ward whose parking facilities are already being placed under severe strain, because of a high-ratio of car ownership as well as Mill Road’s proximity to the train station.”
He also expressed concern about the proposal that Tesco delivery lorries simply park on Mill Road for up to forty minutes while unloading: “This would result in the current, chronic congestion problems being replaced with a sheer, immobile chaos.”
Councillor Bourke then travelled cross-country to look at the Shared Space on New Road, Brighton which is one possible option being looked into as part of the Mill Road Masterplan. This plan would not only preserve but enhance the independent character of Mill Road’s shops.
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