The Original Factory Shop in the News
Redevelopment plans for Chard's Old Station
A DERELICT building in Chard has been given a new lease of life after planning permission was granted to turn it into a factory outlet store.
The Old Station building, on Great Western Road, is set to become an Original Factory Shop, which specialises in discount clothing, homeware and electrical goods.
Members of South Somerset District Council’s Area West Committee unanimously voted in favour of the move, expected to create up to 16 new jobs, at a meeting on Wednesday last week.
The former station building, which is Grade II listed, was previously occupied by an engineering business but has since fallen into disrepair.
Plans submitted by Rollo Homes will see the site revamped, with a rear extension and 21 car parking spaces.
Committee members’ discussions centred on the store’s delivery times, which were altered to try and reduce disruption to people living nearby caused by lorries unloading.
Cllr Ric Pallister said: “If this was an industrial site I wouldn’t have a problem with the times but because it is in close proximity to residential buildings we should restrict them.”
Consideration was also given to the impact on traffic in the area, with the developers agreeing to make a contribution towards improving the junction of the A30 and A358.
Ward member Nigel Mermagen said: “I don’t think this development is going to exacerbate the traffic situation but it’s not going to improve it.
“Anyone who is aware of the building will know how it’s been deteriorating over the past few years and I think it’s extremely beneficial that a use has been found for it.
“I can think of no better way for it to be not only preserved but also put back to how it used to be.”
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24 Mar 2010 by Kirsty Maclagan , Chard and Ilminster News
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