Co-op shop built 'next to pub' near Stourbridge

Proposals for the Hare and Hounds, in Wynall Lane, Wollescote, have been put forward by controversial developer New River Retail.

However, the developer said as well as the shop being built cash would also be spent revamping the pub and help create more than 20 new jobs.

Cradley and Wollescote ward councillor Richard Body said he was concerned by the potential impact on traffic.

He told the Express & Star: "I live less than 200 yards away from there and I know when interest first came about a year ago residents weren't happy.

"I think it is too close to the junction and has extremely limited visibility.

"Obviously I'll be objecting and will be advising residents how to do that as well.

"This is a pub that relies on the use of its car park and if people can't park they won't go there."

According to planning documents submitted to the council, the 326 sq m store would be built on part of the existing car park.

"As part of an identified requirement, this application also seeks the demolition of existing outbuildings and the subsequent erection of a single storey side and rear extension to the pub."

Developers described the parking lot as 'currently underutilised'.

Under the scheme a total of 28 parking spaces (including disabled and parent child spaces) will be provided within the entirety of NRRs ownership - 15 for the shop and 10 for the pub.

The design and access statement concludes: "The scheme will make an efficient use of an existing underused site within an established residential and commercial area.

"The construction of the new store will improve local retail facilities and allow for increased choice and competition.

"Moreover, the development is accessible by a choice of means of transport, will be easily accessible on foot to the surrounding residential area, and will deliver positive benefits in terms of improving the vitality of the area, boosting the local economy and creating in excess of 20 new jobs."