Council denies permission for restaurant plan in Gerrards Cross, citing design, signs, and community impact.
The plan involved a new back door, a big chimney to vent fumes, and a three-story height. The council thought it looked bad and that the signs were too much.
The council called the plan ‘unacceptable’ this month because they disliked its looks. People worried about noise and smells, while traffic and parking were real issues.
Some people thought it promoted unhealthy habits and feared more loitering and litter. The council focused on proper planning concerns, balancing individual and community rights.
The developer checked the noise levels and said it met the usual rules. However, the council disagreed slightly on the impact, stating the location makes a difference.
The council feels it would be too visible, unlike other shops on the road. They believe it won’t protect the area’s charm and may hurt the area’s character.
The plan arrived on December 18, 2024, and the council made their choice on February 12. Now, the applicant can appeal the rejection, and the Secretary of State would then decide.
The restaurant would be in an old bank, formerly Lloyds Bank. So now they must possibly come up with more plans, and also think about the appeal and its timing.