Tesco extension scheme sent back to planning management board

The application, which could see a major extension to the Lisburn store, has been recommended for approval by the Planning Service.

However, during a meeting of Lisburn City Council's Planning Committee this week, Councillor Jonathan Craig proposed the application be re-examined by the Management Board on the basis that the plan had not been assessed in conjunction with the Lisburn City Centre Masterplan.

A spokesperson for the Benson Street Residents' Group, which has been opposing the Tesco expansion plan for almost five years, said they were disappointed the Planning Service had recommended the application should be approved.

"We are however delighted that the Planning Committee unanimously agreed to send the Tesco application back to the Planning Service for complete re-consideration, this time by their Management Board," he continued.

"The Residents' Group appreciates the active support many councillors have given them on this local issue. We saw this again in the unanimous decision of the Planning Committee. There is increasing objection in the local community to any Tesco extension, a feeling of being trampled over in the process, and a sense of anger and frustration that their views seem to be ignored by Tesco and Planning.

"Benson Street Residents' Group hope that in the end common sense will prevail and that the planned expansion of Tesco, up to half as big as it is now, will not be permitted – thus avoiding further deterioration of the quality of life for residents in the area."

Speaking during the meeting Councillor Paul Givan said: "This has been a long drawn out application. However, 743 objections are significant. There has been progress made but residents remain unhappy and it is our job as elected representatives to give them a voice."

Councillor Jonathan Craig said: "This decision was the right one given the fact that the plan was clearly not assessed in conjunction with the Lisburn Centre plan. It would have a severe impact on local town trade, particularly in this harsh economic climate, as well as a major impact on the local road infrastructure which would not be fit for purpose.

"For these reasons I hope that the Management Board will look at all these factors and make an informed decision. The application should not have been given approval in the first place."

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