Local Businesses Successfully Oppose Supermarket Plans in New Cardiff Development
Local businesses in Cardiff have emerged victorious in their battle against plans for a supermarket to be included in a new housing development in the city. The proposal for a supermarket at a new flats scheme on Cowbridge Road East was initially approved by Cardiff Council in 2023. However, local businesses had vehemently opposed the idea of a large chain store moving into the area, citing concerns about its impact on small independent businesses in the vicinity.
Wales & West Housing had initially secured approval for the development comprising 81 new flats along with commercial space. The condition attached to the planning permission stipulated that the largest commercial unit should be subdivided into smaller units, each with a maximum floorspace of 250sqm. Despite this condition, the housing developer later sought to overturn it to accommodate a supermarket chain, prompting significant pushback from local councillors.
In a united front, ward councillors for Riverside, Leonora Thomson, Caro Wild, and Kanaya Singh, highlighted the presence of several long-standing family-run independent businesses in the area. They emphasized the role these businesses play in providing employment opportunities and serving as culturally significant meeting spots. The councillors firmly opposed the addition of another supermarket, calling instead for a thorough equalities impact assessment to evaluate the potential ramifications on the local BAME community.
Following a deliberation by Cardiff Council’s planning committee in early January, the application to include a supermarket in the development was ultimately rejected. Despite this decision, some committee members advocated for the supermarket plans, arguing that it would cater to the needs of the local community. Councillor Michael Michael expressed support for a large supermarket in the area, underscoring the evolving commercial landscape on Cowbridge Road.
In response to concerns about the impact on smaller shops, Councillor Sean Driscoll acknowledged the potential repercussions but maintained that a larger shop would better serve the residents, reducing the need for them to travel to other areas for their shopping needs. The nearest supermarkets to the site under consideration are a Tesco Express and Lidl, both around a 20-minute walk away, while closer convenience stores are situated approximately 11 to 12 minutes on foot.
Riverside councillor, Leonora Thomson, reiterated the suitability of the area for independent retail establishments and cautioned against the encroachment of a supermarket that could detract from the community’s character. Meanwhile, planning committee member, Councillor Waheeda Abdul-Sattar, echoed sentiments against the necessity of a large-scale supermarket, advocating instead for a more modestly sized retail offering.
A retail impact report commissioned by Wales & West Housing underscored agreements with a national supermarket operator to occupy the ground floor unit, subject to planning permission. Despite objections raised, the report contended that the proposed amendment aligns with retail impact considerations. The council’s evaluation of the application highlighted the significance of local businesses in enhancing community cohesion and cautioned against disproportionately large retail units that could disrupt the established local shopping scene.
The outcome of this battle between local businesses and the prospect of a supermarket in the new Cardiff flats development underscores the importance of community voices in shaping urban planning decisions. As the city continues to evolve, striking a balance between commercial development and preserving the unique character of local neighbourhoods remains a key consideration for stakeholders and authorities alike.
In conclusion, the successful resistance by local businesses against the supermarket plans reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding the vibrancy and diversity of Cardiff’s commercial landscape, ensuring that the city’s growth is inclusive and sustainable.