ASDA gets new petrol station despite over 600 objections

Approval has been given for a new petrol station at the ASDA superstore in Strabane after reassurances were given that 600 objections to the move have been dealt with.

The supermarket chain is seeking to build a four pump unattended petrol station at its existing store at Railway Street, Strabane.

The application was discussed at this afternoon’s meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Planning Committee.

The meeting was told that over 600 objections had been lodged against the plans, 594 of which were contained in a single petition, and seven letters.

One letter of support was received.

A planning officer said that some of the objections focused on the ‘negative impact’ the petrol station would have on businesses in a nearby ‘retail pavillion’.

However, the meeting was told that a number of the objections had been withdrawn after ASDA submitted revised plans wherein 50 parking spaces were retained.

Addressing the meeting, Alan Jones, ASDA’s Senior Property Communications Manager, said that the plans were a ‘further commitment to our investment in the town.’

The Sinn Fein councillor Dan Kelly asked Mr Jones if they had any plans to start work on the new petrol station before Christmas.

He replied that there were no plans to start work on the site ‘this side of Christmas’.

Approval was then given for the application.