Plans for a new Asda Express store in Greenwich have hit a roadblock as the council denied the request for revised opening and delivery hours. The proposed changes included opening an hour earlier and closing an hour later on Sundays, as well as extending delivery hours from 7am to 10pm every day.
During a planning meeting, concerns were raised by local residents and councillors about the potential disruption and noise that could be caused by the increased hours and deliveries. Labour Councillor Aidan Smith highlighted complaints from residents about disruption caused by deliveries to other nearby stores, emphasizing the impact on residents’ sleep and overall quality of life.
Jonathan Wilson, a local resident opposing the extended hours, expressed concerns about the noise and traffic disruption that could result from delivery trucks on the narrow Greenwich South Street. He described the proposed hours as “completely absurd” and warned of potential “mayhem” in the area.
On the other hand, Adam Cundale, the town planning manager at Asda, defended the proposed changes, stating that they would not harm residential amenity or highway safety. He emphasized the importance of keeping neighbors on board and acknowledged that more consultation with residents could have been beneficial before applying for the extended hours.
Despite the company’s intentions for the convenience store to primarily serve walk-in customers, the council voted to refuse the application based on concerns about the potential negative impact on residents’ Sunday mornings. The decision means that the new Asda Express store is set to open in November with the originally proposed hours.
The refusal of the extended hours highlights the importance of community engagement and considering the impact of business operations on local residents. It also underscores the need for businesses to consult with stakeholders and address concerns effectively to ensure smooth operations and positive relationships with the community.
