South Lanarkshire Council’s Planning Committee approved proposals for the Motor Fuel Group site at 12 Ladyacre Road on August 11, despite eight objections from the public.
Development details
The development will transform a currently vacant unit within the existing petrol station into a Class 3 cafe/restaurant, while also introducing three covered jet wash bays, a new car park bin store and associated works. The existing petrol station and convenience shop will continue to operate.
The proposed food court will accommodate up to 31 customers and will occupy the vacant unit, which has been unused for several years. Part of the rear of the building and an existing pend will be demolished to create additional parking.
Parking and facilities
A total of 15 parking spaces will be provided, including two accessible spaces, one space for powered two-wheelers and three cycle parking spaces. Plans also include three jet wash bays at the rear of the site, along with lighting and an air vacuum unit for customers.
The proposal attracted eight objections from members of the public, alongside one letter of support. Concerns raised included potential noise and disturbance, privacy, light pollution, traffic and pedestrian safety. Residents also raised concerns about a lack of parking, drainage and flooding, increased pollution and potential impacts on health.
Officer assessment
Despite the objections, council planning officers recommended approval, concluding that the proposals would not result in unacceptable impacts on surrounding properties. A Noise Impact Assessment and Lighting Report submitted as part of the application was assessed by officers, who found it demonstrated that the development would not cause unacceptable noise or light pollution. The council also said the proposed uses were compatible with the existing petrol station.
South Lanarkshire Council’s Roads Development Management team raised no objection to the plans, stating that it was satisfied with the existing access arrangements, internal traffic circulation and proposed parking provision. The site is also close to Lanark town centre and is within the existing settlement boundary.
Conditions attached
Planning officers said the development would support the vitality and viability of the area by introducing a food and drink use close to the town centre. They said that proposals would not undermine Lanark town centre or conflict with local and national planning policies. The council also noted that the development would make use of existing buildings, with only limited external alterations proposed.
A number of conditions have been attached to the approval to address concerns over noise and disturbance. The jet washes, air/vacuum units and associated lighting will only be permitted to operate between 8am and 8pm from Monday to Saturday, and between 10am and 4pm on Sundays. The cafe/restaurant will also be restricted to opening between 8am and 8pm. The council has additionally required an appropriate ventilation system to be installed before the food court opens. A construction traffic management plan will also have to be approved before work begins.
