Proposal to develop a Supermarket at Lower Shott, Bookham

8.44.00pm GMT Mon 2nd Mar 2009

Anne Howarth reviews the latest situation with a local shopkeeper

When the news broke last summer of a proposed supermarket at Lower Shott, Bookham South Councillor Anne Howarth took the initiative of surveying local opinion. Of the 1,920 opinion survey forms which were returned, 98.9% declared against this proposal. Councillor Howarth has now issued an update on the latest position:

"On 20th February 2009, Mole Valley District Council submitted the Core Strategy of its Local Development Framework to the Secretary of State following consideration of all representations received. An Inspector will now be appointed to examine the 'soundess' of the Development Plan Document. There will be a pre-hearing meeting in mid-April 2009 to which those who have already made representations will be invited. The examination of the Core Strategy is scheduled for May - June 2009.

"The crucial section of the Core Strategy for commercial development in Bookham is:

'Vision for Bookham Village Centre

A district centre catering for the day to day needs of the local community.

The Council's strategy for delivering this vision includes:

• Maintaining the vitality and viability of the centre

• Safeguarding the existing provision of shopping floorspace

The existing retail role and function of Bookham village centre will be safeguarded and consolidated. Proposals which would harm or alter the retail function of the centre or detract from its vitality and viability will not be permitted.'

"Provided this statement survives unaltered it is hard to see how development of a major new supermarket can be permitted. It is also notable that much-needed refurbishment work on the existing shops at Grove Corner has now been completed.

"Liberal Democrats will continue to keep a close eye on this matter and also support the Village Plan project 'Bookham Vision' which will produce a report dealing with a wide range of issues concerning Bookham in full consultation with local residents and traders."