Those concerned that the introduction of Costa Coffee to Cowes High Street will impact the small independent businesses are reeling this week after news the planning application has been approved – without even being heard by the Isle of Wight council planning committee.
The application was lodged by Costa Coffee earlier this year and attracted huge opposition from businesses and residents in Cowes.
Councillor’s request refused
According to today’s report by the CP, Cllr Paul Fuller had requested the application be heard at Planning Committee, however, his request was overruled by the planning department. The decision to grant approval was given last week under delegated powers by a planning officer.
The officer’s justification to approve the application rejects concerns by locals about the national chain as not a ‘material consideration’. It reads,
The majority of concerns raised are as a result of the proposal being for a national chain, rather than a local business, clearly this is not a material consideration in assessing the application. Section 23 of the NPPF advises that proposals should promote competitive town centres that provide customer choice.
Campaigners argue there are already 27 different establishments where you can buy coffee along the High Street.
Sustainability of existing businesses concerns
Cowes Town Council strongly objected to the application on the grounds “that there are already a number of independent businesses selling coffee in the High Street”.
Concerns about the sustainability of existing independent businesses was raised, along with fears it could lead to a significant change in character to Cowes High Street.
The No to Costas in Cowes campaign said,
“We are extremely concerned that such a small town like Cowes will not be able to survive the competition and corporate nature of Costa Coffee.”
Huge opposition
There were 355 objections lodged with the council, over 380 people signed an online petition and just under 1,000 people joined a Facebook group in opposition to the application.
Those driving the ‘No to Costas in Cowes’ campaign on Facebook say it is now up to businesses to take the campaign further if they wish, reminding them that the Devon town of Totnes managed to halt a Costa Coffee opening up in their High Street even after the planning was granted.
Update
See the Costa UK MD’s response.
Image: Dave on Flickr under CC BY 2.0
