PLANS to build a hand car wash at a Hampshire supermarket have been thrown out after sparking more than 100 objections.
Protests started flooding in after a valeting company sought consent to redevelop part of the car park at the Totton branch of Asda, which is opposite an existing car wash.
Locals said the proposed development would create extra traffic problems in the area.
Now the application has been turned down by New Forest District Council, which described the size and location of the car wash as "wholly inappropriate".
Quoting some of the comments made by the 114 objectors a report issued by the council says: "The car park is already very busy and not big enough to accommodate the car wash safely.
"The siting of the car wash in the middle of the car park will create conflict with store users and would be potentially dangerous."
Planning officers agreed with many of the views expressed by protesters.
The report says: "Car washes tend to be located on the edges of car parks, within spaces that do not obstruct or delay the flow of traffic.
"In this instance the car wash would be positioned wholly within the car park and surrounded by circulation aisles and pedestrian movements.
"The lack of alternative locations within the car park appears to be due to the success of the store's home delivery service.
"A purpose-built structure and van parking area takes up a reasonable space. There (also) appear to be small-scale pop-up businesses within the car park that already add pressure to the availability of parking spaces."
The report also criticises the appearance of proposed development, saying it would result in "visual clutter".
Objectors had included Totton and Eling Town Council, which said the scheme would have a detrimental impact on the flow of traffic in the car park.
It also said the proposed location was too close to the busiest section of the parking area.
"Additionally the economic benefits of the car wash are somewhat diminished by the presence of an existing site across the road."
The applicant, Waves Valeting Services, could decide to lodge and appeal or submit a revised scheme.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel