Village worries over another superstore

Developers behind a major building project in a South Staffordshire village have revealed images to illustrate plans which include a supermarket, hotel, nursing home, petrol station and 150 houses.

Concern over the supermarket in a 'mixed use development' planned for the Lyne Hill Industrial Estate, Boscomoor Lane, Penkridge, has led to a public meeting being called. Penkridge has two Co-op stores, one at a petrol station on Stafford Road and another in the village centre.

The 34.19 acres site, adjacent to the Wolverhampton Road, would have three access points, one from Wolverhampton Road and two from Boscomoor Lane.

Penkridge South East councillor Roger Holt has said plans had been well received, but some residents had expressed concerns about adding another supermarket to the village.

Councillor Holt said: "It hasn't taken off as an industrial estate because the access is very difficult and it isn't an ideal place for a business venture."

Plans include a 45,000 sq ft supermarket, non-food retail of 30,000 sq ft, a six-pump petrol station, a 70 bedroom three-storey hotel, a two-storey nursing home, and up to 150 new houses.

Developers Northcreek Estates held an exhibition in January where residents were given an early indication of the plans for the brownfield site.

Northcreek Estates have hinted that there may be scope to create a pedestrian route from the Boscomoor Shopping Centre.

There is also an idea to create a 1.5 mile pedestrian and cycle route along an abandoned railway line south of the site.

Northcreek Estates have told nearby residents that the materials for the new building will be 'sympathetic' to the area including brick, render and tile.

A public green spot could be created as part of the development and some of the house would be designated as starter homes.

A public meeting has been planned for next month where residents will be asked to have a say on plans.

The meeting will be held at the Haling Dene Centre, in Cannock Road, Penkridge, on Monday, May 9 at 7.30pm.