Plans for KFC and petrol station at former Staffordshire pub thrown out
Plans to knock down a former Staffordshire pub and build a fast food restaurant and petrol station on the site have been thrown out at appeal.
The Darlaston Inn and Wacky Warehouse, on the A34 north of Stone, closed in March 2018.
Leisure operator Greene King and forecourt retailer Euro Garages put forward plans to redevelop the site to provide a drive-through restaurant and eight-pump petrol station.
But Stafford Borough Council refused to grant permission because of fears for the safety of pedestrians crossing a busy road to visit the site.
The application went to appeal – where it was revealed that a branch of KFC was earmarked for the site. More than 50 jobs were set to be created by the development.
But the Planning Inspectorate has now dismissed the appeal on the grounds of road safety.
The planning inspector’s report said: “Despite the proposed development being largely aimed at vehicles using the existing road network, the TS (transport statement) acknowledges that the site will allow for journeys by walking, cycling, and public transport to be undertaken, particularly by staff.
"The site has no dedicated access across the gyratory for pedestrians, and it is of note that the existing development on the site could be operated without such provision.
Facilities
“However, the proposal is for the redevelopment of the site and the National Planning Policy Framework requires new developments to make provision for safe and suitable access to the site for all users, including pedestrians.
“Furthermore, the addition of a retail unit albeit offering a convenience offer along with a restaurant, which the appellant confirmed at the hearing would be occupied by KFC, are likely to attract visitors by foot, in particular given the limited availability of such facilities in the vicinity of the nearby dwellings and businesses, including a larger residential area – Whitebridge Housing Estate – which is about 1km from the site.
“The proposed scheme includes a formal uncontrolled pedestrian crossing across the gyratory. This would incorporate dropped kerbs, tactile paving and a surface dressing to highlight its presence. The crossing would be supported with two sets of ‘SLOW’ markings on approach.
“I have significant concerns over the safe use of the proposed uncontrolled pedestrian crossing. Consequently, I conclude that the proposal would have an unacceptable impact on highway safety in respect of failing to provide a safe and suitable access pedestrians wanting to access the proposed development.”
More than 500 people signed a petition against the scheme after raising concerns about safety, litter and light pollution.
Petition founder Gareth Mobley said: “This well-known spot deserves a more well thought through development.
“The market town of Stone needs more independent businesses to bring sites like these back to life. It does not need a corporate ‘service station’.”
