Plan for extension to supermarket blocked

A plan to expand a West Midland supermarket by demolishing a neighbouring ambulance station has been thwarted after councillors turned them down on road safety and noise grounds.

Morrisons wanted to knock down Aldridge Ambulance Station and build a bigger store in a move that would have created 100 jobs. It would have also paved the way for a reshuffle of paramedic bases across Walsall with plans for a smaller base in Aldridge, next to the supermarket's proposed new service yard.

But elderly residents who live in Croxalls Court sheltered flats directly opposite the proposed development in Anchor Road said they were unhappy with the plans due to current noise nuisance.

Eileen Turner told Walsall Council's development control meeting last night: "We object to the service yard as it will be 40m nearer and immediately opposite our apartments."

She said some residents were being disturbed at night by current 24-hour loading activity at the supermarket and there were concerns over the number of delivery lorries visiting.

Ashley Turner, of architect's WECC which designed the scheme, said his firm worked closely with the council and West Midlands Ambulance Trust, which was in favour of the plans saying its Aldridge base was to large for its purpose.

The council's planning officers had recommended the plans for approval.

Councillor John Rochelle, of Aldridge, said: "I am appalled by this application. We were promised a reasonable facility for the ambulances. I think the people of Aldridge will lose out."

Councillors refused the application on grounds it would adversely affect the amenities of the neighbours at Croxalls Court, increase the traffic on the Aldridge Bypass, the access to the new ambulance base was inadequate and dangerous and an increase in noise levels.

No one from Morrisons was today available for comment.