Controversial plan to convert former pub into store and flats set for green light - despite 200 objections

Planning officers at Doncaster Council are recommending councillors approve plans to transform the former Millstone Hotel on Westgate, Tickhill, into a store and five flats – despite nearly 200 objections.

The properties include three one-bedroom flats, two two-bedroom flats and 21 parking spaces, with Co-op believed to be interested in taking on the store.

The application has received nearly 200 objections from residents - many back the flats, but fear the store will harm the viability of businesses in Tickhill town centre.

The council has received 45 letters of support for the application.

Councillors at a previous meeting were conflicted on the impact on the town centre and road safety concerns.

The meeting was deferred, but highways officers have for more involvement from the highways team.

Another consultation took place with the council’s highways teams and a meeting was held with the applicant and agent. No objections were raised from the teams on the proposed development.

Objector Rod Broad said: “The village cannot support a supermarket as it already supports three newsagents, three convenience stores, two butchers, a fresh fish shop, a fruit and veg shop and a card shop.

“How greedy can supermarkets be? Some retailers have traded for 40 years plus, only to see a bleak future if this application is granted.

“Pubs are changing to supermarkets – this happened to the Star at Barnby Dun. This trend has to stop as they are killing local communities.”

Tickhill Town Council welcomed the properties, but also objected to the store plan.

Maxine Booker, council clerk, said: “Current retailers report that their businesses operate on the margins of profitability.

“The presence of a supermarket outside the town centre could well undermine, if not destroy the viability of the core business area.

“This is not a case of resistance to competition - if it was, it would not be the business of the town council - but of concern for the character of Tickhill as a market town with flourishing local shops.”

Joseph Perkins, council planning officer, said: “This report demonstrates there are no material planning considerations that would significantly or demonstrably outweigh the social, economic or environmental benefits of the proposal.

“The development would not cause undue harm to neighbouring properties, trees, local centres, the highway network or the wider character of the area.”

Councillors will make the final decision on Tuesday, May 26.