Secretary of State to consider called-in application for new supermarket development partly within functional floorplan
Two members of chambers will appear in a 5-day public inquiry convened to consider Aldi Stores Limited’s full application for a new food store on the edge of Winnersh, Wokingham.
The proposed scheme includes retail floorspace with access, parking, servicing, landscaping, and rooftop solar panels. There is an extant consent for a car showroom on the appeal site.
In February 2024, the application was called-in for determination by the Secretary of State, principally to consider the extent to which the proposals were consistent with Government policy for meeting the challenge of climate change, flooding and coastal change.
The main considerations for Inspector David Wildsmith to hear evidence on include:
- Flood risk, in view of the location of the site within Flood Zone 3;
- Retail impact and whether there are any sequentially preferable sites;
- Planning policy and planning balance, including the benefits of the proposed development.
Jack Barber, clerked by George Regan, is instructed on behalf of Wokingham Borough Council, the Local Planning Authority. The Council is inviting the Secretary of State to grant planning permission for the Scheme.
Rowan Clapp, clerked by Daniel Gatt, is instructed on behalf of the Environment Agency, the Government’s statutory consultee granted Rule 6(6) status at the inquiry. The EA oppose the Scheme due to an in-principle objection to development in the functional flood plain.
Cornerstone Barristers has particular expertise and a growing reputation in relation to climate change related matters and are working at the forefront of those seeking imaginative solutions to climate and biodiversity risks. To instruct one of our barristers, contact clerks@cornerstonebarristers.com.
To learn more about chambers’ climate expertise, check out Cornerstone Climate.
