More than 100 object to plans for supermarket car wash
MORE than 100 people are objecting to a car wash company's bid to set up a business operating from a Totton supermarket.
Waves Valeting Services Ltd is proposing to take over 14 existing spaces in Asda car park in Maynard Road. There would be 452 spaces remaining.
It also wants to add a steel cabin approximately 4.8 metres by 2.4 metres to use as a customer reception and store.
The planning application to New Forest District Council states: “The introduction of the car wash will create new and sustainable economic growth in the area. It will have a positive impact on local employment creating an estimated four full-time and four part-time jobs.
“The design allows for both ambulant and disabled customers to either remain in their vehicles whilst it is washed, or leave said vehicle and collect upon return.
"It is likely that the facility will be used in association with any trip to the supermarket rather than resulting in a purpose-built trip.”
However, the application has been recommended for refusal by Totton and Eling Town Council.
It has also received 112 letters of objection from people who say they have concerns over the use of chemicals in a public area as well as the impact on traffic and the loss of parking spaces at an already busy supermarket.
In a statement to NFDC, the town council said it can "see the economic benefits of a car washing centre in the Asda car park, like there are in numerous other supermarkets, but there are a number of concerns regarding the application".
It added: “Firstly and most importantly is the detrimental impact that this could cause to the flow of traffic around this busy car park, and this is a view shared by a significant number of local residents who use the car park on a regular basis.
“Although currently the location is good in terms of the impact of noise pollution to residents and other premises, it is felt that it is too close to the busiest section of parking near the supermarket entrance and the loss of spaces here combined with potential traffic issues around the site could cause significant problems.
"Additionally, the economic benefits of the car wash are somewhat diminished by the presence of an existing site across the road which would be potentially harmed.”
The application is due to be determined by the district council in January.
