The Planning Inspectorate has overturned a decision by the district council to stop a new chemist shop being built next to Burnham-On-Sea Medical Centre.
Town and district councillors lodged their objections to the proposals earlier this year amid concerns that it would cause traffic safety issues, represent an over-development of the site, and hurt the trade of existing town centre chemists.
However, Burnham Medical Centre appealed against the decision and the Planning Inspectorate’s Chris Tipping has ruled in their favour by rejecting the concerns.
In his report, he concludes: “I do not accept that the proposed development would have any material adverse impact on the vitality and viability of the town centre of Burnham-On-Sea or on traffic and highway safety in Love Lane. It would also not be contrary to development plan policy.”
The decision will mean that nationwide chemist chain Day Lewis will shut its chemist in Regent Street and build the new one on land next to the Love Lane surgery.
Burnham Medical Centre’s Management Partner Debbie Halls told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “We’re very pleased that the Inspectorate has ruled in our favour and are certain that the new chemist will benefit everyone. We’re starting work on the plans and expect building to begin next year.”
