As we were going to press yesterday (Thursday), a special meeting was being held in Narberth opposing plans for a new supermarket in the town.

As recently reported, the Co-operative Group has agreed terms to occupy a 10,000-square foot food store at the former Brains Brewery site in Spring Gardens and is supporting a planning application made by Actoris.

The application - submitted to Pembrokeshire County Council - is causing considerable interest within the town.

And a letter campaign against the plans is underway.

Letters are being circulated opposing the application for people to sign and send back to the planning department.

"The proposed plan for a 10,000-square foot supermarket in the old James Williams yard is going to have a terrific impact on the town, both to residents and businesses," said the Chamber of Trade secretary, Gordon Barry.

"Normally when this sort of proposal is planned a number of considerations are made such as retail impact assessments. Pembrokeshire County Council were supposed to commission one for the redevelopment of the old CP School, but nothing more has been heard of it," continued Mr. Barry.

And he went on: "The assessment report would normally at least consider the following catchment areas and estimated spend, leakage, existing business turnover, threats to existing businesses.

"The applicant has carried out some investigation into the transport and vehicular access, but not on its impact on the local community."

Mr. Barry added: "However, a message from the town has to be delivered to the county council on this application, so a local letter is being circulated for people to sign and then send to the planning authority.

"It is also worth considering the other difficulties facing Narberth businesses, such as rates - will the Co-op be paying the High Street's new business rates of £450 per square metre?; pay and display - the Co-op are able to provide 50 free spaces for two hours whilst town shoppers will have to pay; the old primary school disposal with the subsequent loss of 60-plus parking spaces and maybe another supermarket; what will the Co-op sell that is not currently available within the town? Except with their buying power it will be cheaper (for now); and the worst economic recession for decades."

Council objects

to plan

Narberth town councillors have objected to the plan for a new supermarket in Spring Gardens.

At their meeting on Tuesday night, members considered the application submitted by Douglas Gregg (Cross Hands) Ltd., for part demolition, change of use and extension for Class A1 retail food store at the former Brains Brewery and retail shop in Spring Gardens.

Their objections were on the following grounds: 1. Sustainability of present employment; 2. The building would not enhance either the area or surrounding dwelling houses; 3. The application was not compliant with local planning policy as the area had been designated for housing; 4. The development would change the ambiance and nature of the town and do irreversible harm to Narberth; 5. The current retail choice and facilities were adequate for the area.

Councillors will now submit their objections to Pembrokeshire County Council.