Aldi
Harlow
Planning Potential secured planning permission for a mixed-use development on an edge-of-centre site, comprising an Aldi format foodstore with 14 residential units above. The design and layout of the development will enable Aldi to trade from the site, providing an anchor foodstore to improve and enhance the vitality and viability of the existing neighbourhood centre.
The application followed a complicated planning history, including a Public Inquiry which was dismissed. Planning Potential prepared and co-ordinated a planning application to overcome the issues, including the physical regeneration of an underutilised site, demonstrating a quantitative and qualitative requirement for the development, the appropriateness of the site for a foodstore and that the proposals would positively enhance the retail offer of both the existing centre and Harlow. The appeal decision was also subsequently quoted as an example of justification for removing the quantitative need test, as this had restricted a development opportunity, despite there being positive benefits of the scheme.
Following submission, Planning Potential were involved in extensive discussions with officers to support the scheme, as well as negotiating acceptable Heads of Terms for Aldi. The Council accepted the revised planning case, commenting that, “…the proposed development would make a valuable use of previously developed land” and would benefit the neighbourhood centre, including through linkage improvements proposed. Planning Potential successfully presented the application to Members of the Planning Committee, who agreed with the case and resolved to grant permission. Throughout the application, Planning Potential monitored the Council’s LDF progress and other application submissions at the time to ensure efficient and effective delivery of the application.