Yahoo News Former Mercedes dealership plans approved despite traffic concerns
The former Mercedes Benz dealership in Walsall is set to become home to a supermarket and five restaurants offering takeaway. The change of use application at the closed car garage on Dudley Street was approved by Walsall Council’s planning committee on Thursday.
The proposals include a new glass frontage, a bin store, 24-hour security office, a reconfigured car park with 63 spaces and eight disabled bays, and a bike store. The opening hours at the complex would be 08:00 - 23:00 Monday to Saturday, and 10:00 - 23:00 on Sundays and bank holidays. The complex is set to generate up to 70 full and part time jobs.
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The application was brought before the planning committee after a petition against the proposal was signed by more than 10 people. Six objections were received for the proposal with concerns about highway safety, congestion, and an increase in antisocial behaviour.
An objection was also received from Walsall and Bloxwich MP, Valerie Vaz, over concerns the proposal might have on the town centre retail function. Six comments were received in support of the proposals, citing the benefits of job creation, economic development and an increase in dining and leisure facilities.
One of the speakers against the proposals was St Matthews councillor, Eileen Russell. She said: “Although the proposed plan for a change of use at the Mercedes garage site seems like a workable development, the reality of the actual day-to-day comings and goings already present problems, which will only be exacerbated by increased traffic and footfall.
“There is congestion, especially during rush hour, which is often at a complete standstill and has a knock-on effect in both directions. The situation for pedestrians is dangerous. The crossing at Hill Street is used by children and adults. The volume of traffic means walkers and cyclists at the Borough Arms junction are similarly at risk.
“Neighbours express fears about a rise in anti-social behaviour. Fast food outlets have detrimental effects, delivery bikes on pavements, litter, and market food associated with health issues. Walsall already has enough takeaways.”
Speaking in favour of the proposals, Mr Sadiq reminded committee members that there were no objections from any of planning authority. He said: ”The Mercedes garage has been closed for one year. A number of people who have inquired about this site have requested only parts of it rather than a whole.
“The site could be regenerated, creating 70 jobs. We don’t want to create a dead site which cannot be regenerated. It's a sustainable location and would benefit the local community.”
Councillor Klara Margetts backed councillor Russell, agreeing that the traffic situation in the area is ‘dire’ and ‘horrid’.
Highways stated that while congestion is an issue, it does not mean that the proposals would be unsafe or cause extra hazards. Several members commented that the poor road conditions are the fault of the ‘nightmare’ traffic system introduced to accommodate the Sprint bus service which is yet to be delivered.
Councillor Samra moved the motion to approve the proposals in line with the planning officers recommendations. He said: “It’s quite commendable that somebody wants to invest in Walsall. We've got derelict building after derelict building. This shows somebody wants to put money back. This is beneficial to regeneration. To put Walsall on the map we must support these schemes.”
It was seconded by deputy council leader, councillor Statham, he said: “It’s a dilapidated site and it’s not being brought back into use. We all know the bad press Walsall gets about the state of the town centre. It’s a tiny step but it’s a step in the right direction.”
A majority of members were in favour of supporting the proposal. Three members voted against it, councillor Aftab Nawaz, councillor Khizar Hussain, and councillor Hajran Bashir.
