Our client had been refused permission twice on grounds that the site was outside the centre, the competing site was preferred and the scheme would severely impact local shops.

We were brought in to find a resolution. We argued that the site would, in reality, function as part of the centre and thus enhance it ‘as a whole’ and that the competing scheme would not come forward.

Public opinion had established itself against the client’s aspirations but our assessment was supported by the Council’s retail expert as well a second opinion requested by members. This helped win the support of officers. Whilst the Planning Committee remained opposed, we encouraged the use of a procedural device enabling Cabinet members to overrule their Planning Committee colleagues.