PLANNING permission has been granted for the redevelopment of a former car dealership – despite plenty of opposition from locals.
The CMS Vauxhall site on Churchfields in Kidderminster, Worcestershire, has stood empty since 2023 and has even been described as an “eyesore”.
But according to the Kidderminster Shuttle, under an approved scheme, the existing buildings will be demolished and replaced with a new 24-hour petrol station featuring a kiosk shop with food-to-go, dedicated EV charging bays, general car parking, a jet wash and new landscaping.
The developer says the project would create around 20 jobs in total, split between 10 full-time and ten part-time roles – returning the long-vacant plot to active commercial use.
The decision, which was made at a Wyre Forest District Council planning meeting, saw councillors vote in favour of the application.
However, councillor Marcus Hart opened up on significant opposition to the decision – noting 65 formal objections, extensive criticism on social media and an objection from Kidderminster Town Council.
Their main concerns raised focused on the potential for increased traffic on the ring road, the development’s proximity to the existing Sainsbury’s petrol station, possible light pollution from a 24-hour operation and the closeness of the site to nearby homes.
Hart, though, argued that similar situations exist locally, pointing to a petrol station at Gilgal in Stourport that operates at a busy junction near another petrol station.
He said he had weighed up the objections carefully but concluded the proposal complied with planning policy.
He also emphasised that the redevelopment would improve the appearance of the area, adding: “It’s a redundant site and it’s an eyesore at the moment.
“The plan includes landscaping and greenery – yes it’s 24/7 but so are lots of other petrol stations.”
Additional reservations were raised by Councillor Fran Oborski, who said she was concerned the kiosk could become a late-night off-licence if alcohol were sold.
The applicant, EG On The Move Limited, justified the development by arguing there is a need for improved roadside services in and around Kidderminster.
They said: “The proposed development will comprise a new comprehensive roadside facility for which there is an identified need in the context of a shortfall of such services in the wider Kidderminster area.
“The proposed development will allow for the provision of eight high-powered EV charging points on the SRN for which there is an evident need.
“The proposed development will also bring back an active economic use to the site which has remained vacant for over a year. “
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