NGriffiths

Published at 00:00, Saturday, 04 December 2004

By Nick Griffiths

DUNMAIL Park bosses are refusing to give up hopes of building a new store at the Workington shopping centre – despite scrapping plans for a £2.3million extension.

J Dixon and Son Limited, owner of the out-of-town retail and cinema complex, has withdrawn its proposals for a new furniture shop after talks with Allerdale Council planners.

Bill Dixon, company director, said he decided to pull the application for a 49,00sq ft extension on the basis of advice.

But he added a new blueprint would be submitted. “The planning application for a new furniture store at Dunmail Park has had to be withdrawn,” he said.

“(This is) so that an even more comprehensive planning study can take place prior to a further application.

“We considered the application would be acceptable, particularly as it would have no quantifiable effect on the town centre.

“Although seemingly popular with the public it did not receive the political support we were hoping for on this occasion.”

Ric Outhwaite, head of planning at Allerdale Council, said: “We have policies which are in line with national guidelines.

“Views were being expressed which were not in compliance with our policies.

“A previous application for additional retail development at Dunmail Park was refused and dismissed on appeal.”

Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk