Tesco expansion plans back for decision

Director of Enviromental Services Mr Colin McClintock suggested the special meeting after Councillor Jonathan Craig proposed representatives from the Council meet Tesco to discuss issues around the application.

After a lengthy discussion it was agreed representatives from Roads Service and residents from Benson Street should also be invited to put forward their views.

Speaking at Monday night's planning meeting, Planning Service officer Tim Ward explained they were still waiting for amended plans for the exit onto the roundabout from Tesco's agent and that conditions would be applied to the application.

Mr Craig said he was still concerned about the impact the proposed application would have on the area and said he shared huge concerns over how the scheme would be carried out if given the green light and what the impact on local residents will be.

"I am still concerned about Tesco's attitude and lack of concern on the impact on the residents and traffic in the whole Lisburn area. I am pleased to see Roads Service taking the traffic flow issue seriously" he said.

Councillor William Leathem said he agreed with conditions being set but asked what enforcement action could be taken if there were breaches.

Councillor Paul Givan said the amended scheme showed that a lot has been achieved so far.

Councillor Basil McCrea suggested Environment Minister Edwin Poots should be asked to review the application but Mr Givan said this would not be his decision.

Mr McCrea replied: "We need to talk and tell them (Benson Street Residents) what is going on."

Residents from Benson Street sitting in the gallery applauded Mr McCrea's comments.

Speaking after the meeting Mr McCrea said he was "extremely surprised" that it was only the end of last week that the Planning Office had told the Council it would be bringing the issue to them on Monday night. And he commended the residents for attending the meeting at such short notice.

He added that people who seek the support of elected representatives should beware "those who promise them the sun, the moon and the stars but are ultimately only able deliver excuses".

A representative from the Benson Street Residents Group said they appreciated the opportunity to voice their concerns again.

He commented: "We are disappointed with the Planning Service Management Board's decision."

"People are still amazed that Tesco want to forge ahead with this extension even after all this time and knowing it is against the will of everyone in the neighbourhood."