CarneySweeney has secured planning permission for the development of a new Lidl store in Sandford, Dorset.  The site adjoins but is outside the settlement boundary and lies within the Green Belt.  Planning permission was granted by the committee against an officer recommendation for refusal.  

Protracted negotiations with the planning officer and statutory consultees successfully addressed all the material planning issues except for Green Belt policy, but we successfully argued there were very special circumstances to justify the development: these included showing a strong quantitative and qualitative need for the store.

As well as impact on the Green Belt and the countryside, issues addressed included the presence of reptiles on the site and an adjoining Grade II listed kiln.  Agreement was reached with Natural England to relocate the reptiles and an extensive landscape buffer shields the rear of the store from the kiln to the satisfaction of the conservation officer.  The development incorporates solar panels to provide zero carbon energy and EV chargers within the car park.  The building design is bespoke and includes a curved green roof and extensive new planting including 47 new trees.  A public consultation exercise revealed strong support for the store.  The proposed store will deliver improved local choice and competition for residents living in Sandford, Wareham and the wider hinterland and reduce vehicle mileage and emissions.