Protests in the air over Asda scheme
ASDA has run into opposition over its ambitions to expand its superstore off The Parkway at Handsworth.
Concerns over extra traffic, air pollution and the impact on local shops are being expressed by community representatives in response to an application to increase the size of the premises by 9% and to add 85 parking spaces.
Handsworth Community Forum says it is opposing the scheme "in the strongest possible terms". Maurice Littlewood, who chairs the forum, said the junction of Handsworth Road and Richmond Park Road was already a proven traffic hazard.
With traffic on Handsworth and Retford Road at unacceptable levels, there was also the question of increasing the levels of air pollution.
Mr Littlewood said he had been working for seven years with the East End Quality of Life initiative and, more recently, the Care4Air organisation on the monitoring of nitrogen dioxide throughout Handsworth and Darnall. Excessive levels can cause serious health problems,
"The disputed granting of this application will result in the increase of traffic congestion and exhaust emissions," said Mr Littlewood.
Community fears are being supported by local MP Clive Betts.
He said the Handsworth Asda had already expanded once, when it did not need planning permission to install a mezzanine floor. "The traffic congestion is already substantial, particularly at peak periods. People trying to get through the area can be very frustrated. Enough is enough."
Mr Betts said he was also opposing the application because of the threat to the business of local shops.
Asda is looking for council permission for a side extension and extra mezzanine floorspace, describing the proposed development as "modest".
It says it needs the extra space to ease congestion in the store at peak times as a result of trading above expectations.
It is also claimed that the limited size of the proposed extension means that there will be no effect on other businesses within its catchment area. Up to 25 extra jobs are envisaged.
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Wednesday 23 May 2012
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