Tesco’s Stonehaven Supermarket Plans Face Appeal Decision

Plans for a new Tesco supermarket in Stonehaven may soon face an appeal after local councillors voted against the proposal last month. The decision came despite claims from Tesco executives that the store would create 100 new jobs and could open by next Christmas. Concerns were raised about potential negative impacts on trade within the town centre, which have led to a divided opinion among local stakeholders.

The Kincardine and Mearns area committee had earlier expressed support for the proposal, while council planners recommended its rejection. Opponents included retail competitors such as the Co-op, which operates three branches in the town, and Ury Estate, which plans to build a supermarket nearby. Ultimately, the infrastructure services committee voted against the Tesco plan, despite unanimous backing from local councillors.

Now, Ashfield Land, the company behind the project, is reportedly considering an appeal against this decision. A spokesperson for Ashfield Land indicated that they are exploring all options regarding the Stonehaven Gateway site.

Community Support and Local Concerns

The potential appeal raises questions about local support for the supermarket. David Lawman, chairman of the Stonehaven Community Council, believes that the proposal would likely receive “similar support” if it is brought back to the decision-makers. He emphasized the community’s desire for retail options comparable to those available in other towns across Aberdeenshire.

Lawman stated, “The community council, along with significant numbers of our townsfolk, were supportive of this application. Like all large-scale applications, we would consider them and take the views of our community into account before deciding.”

Stonehaven councillor Dawn Black has also expressed her backing for a potential appeal. As a member of the Scottish National Party (SNP), Black has actively supported the supermarket during discussions at council meetings. She highlighted the “unique circumstances of the geography of Stonehaven” and urged a thorough examination of the local economy’s needs.

Black pointed out that many residents travel between seven and 20 miles to access adequate grocery shopping options, resulting in an estimated £70 million leakage from the local economy annually. “These are all material considerations I put forward for granting the application and I would hope they would stand up to scrutiny by a reporter,” she added.

Next Steps and Local Impact

As the developers weigh their options for an appeal, the local community remains engaged in the discussion surrounding the supermarket’s potential benefits and implications for Stonehaven. The outcome of this decision could significantly influence the town’s retail landscape and the local economy.

Local residents and stakeholders are now left to ponder whether the appeal will succeed and if the much-anticipated Tesco could finally become a reality. The debate encapsulates broader issues of retail competition, community needs, and economic vitality in smaller towns.

The situation continues to unfold, and many in Stonehaven are keen to see how this pivotal decision will shape their community’s future.