Salisbury City Councillors withdraw support for Asda supermarket application
Evidence suggests it could have a negative impact on local wildlife and the environment
Salisbury City Councillors have withdrawn their support for a proposed new Asda supermarket and petrol station.
An ecological report submitted to Wiltshire Council brought evidence of potential negative impact on wildlife around the London Road area, the proposed site for the new development.
The councillors heard surveys had recorded 33 bird species in the area, eleven of “high conservation concern” and seven of that group are currently breeding.
Four of the recorded species, mistle thrush, house sparrow, linnet and greenfinch, are on the Red List with declining populations.
The report states that the development would cause “a significant adverse effect” on the local bird population from loss of habitat, nesting and foraging opportunities.
Local people in the area also had their say, voicing concerns about the impact of light pollution and extra traffic on remaining wildlife and on homes, adding that they valued and enjoyed seeing the birds in what is otherwise a built up area.
The council had originally supported the development, but with several caveats, such as reduced opening hours and a lowered speed limit on the road, which have not been addressed.
Residents told the city’s planning committee that they value and enjoy the wildlife in an otherwise built-up area.
They voiced concern about the impact of light pollution and extra traffic on remaining wildlife and on nearby homes.
The City Council previously supported the application but with several caveats, which Councillors said have not been addressed.
These included reduced opening hours, more EV charging points, installation of solar panels and water recycling, raised banking to shield homes from light pollution, coin-operated trolleys, and a lower speed limit on London Road.
The City Council is a consultee on planning applications and can make comments but cannot make decisions, which are the responsibility of Wiltshire Council.
The committee also requested that the application be heard in Salisbury, rather than Trowbridge, to allow local people to attend.