1:55pm Tuesday 13th May 2008
By Nick Mashiter
ASDA today started its appeal to build a new store in Chippenham but still face strong opposition from the council and public.
The retail giant wants to build a new store on Langley Park, complete with 192 houses. But has gone to appeal after its initial application was turned down in June last year.
Now the public appeal, which is expected to last nine days, opened at North Wiltshire District Council this morning and the firm still faces opposition to their proposals for Foundry Lane.
The Council and railway signalling company Westinghouse, who are based at Langley Park, are opposed to the plans.
Local residences and councillors also feel strongly against the proposals by ASDA.
Councillor Paul Darby, who represents Hill Rise Ward, said: "They say it will create jobs but it will draw jobs up from the town centre."
In his opening statement, Simon Randle Q.C, speaking for the council, said: "This appeal has the potential to decide the future of this area in Chippenham.
"This is very important for the future of the town because the local authority believe there are strong reasons for the refusal of the applications."
But Christopher Lockhart-Mummery Q.C, representing ASDA, added his clients felt a new store would benefit the town.
He said: "The appeal proposals represent a high quality development, which will deliver welcome regeneration to this part of Chippenham."
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