Woolworth site is moving on

The Woolworths site

Outline planning permission for a mixed use development at the former Woolworth site on Royle Barn Road on Castleton has been approved.
 
Plans to have shops, restaurants, drinking establishments, take-aways, storage and distribution units, offices and houses, were given the thumbs up by Councillors at a meeting held tonight (Tuesday 15 March 2011).
 
The report presented to Councillors suggested the plans be approved for the following reasons: “The proposed development would provide a suitable for a mix of employment, housing, retail and D1 uses and will make a significant contribution to the regeneration of Castleton.
 
“The proposal will provide a number of employment opportunities on the site through the proposed 'traditional' employment uses (B1,B2 and B8), retail and D1 uses which address any issues in terms of the loss of existing employment floor space.
 
“The proposed retail and service elements will support the regeneration of Castleton Local Centre and the convenience store will assist in halting the decline of Castleton Local Centre and establish it as a more attractive and viable centre.
 
“The convenience store would be located on the most sequentially preferable site in Castleton and it will facilitate the delivery of a key project i.e. Railway Square as set out in the Castleton Masterplan.
 
“The proposal sets out a suitable strategy for access and will have no detrimental impact on the local highway network. In addition, the close proximity of the site to the rail station and high frequency bus routes means that public transport is a viable alternative to the private car.
 
“Modal shift to rail will be encouraged by a contribution towards improvements to Castleton station. Any ecological, contamination or flood risk issues can be addressed through appropriate planning conditions.”