THREE victories out of three have been scored against applications which could affect BordonÕs fight for extra facilities.
A few weeks after housing plans for RE Lines and land near Devon Road were thrown out by East Hampshire District CouncilÕs planning officers, a third controversial application to demolish two shops in Forest Road, has also been rejected by officers.
But the victory celebrations may not last, as planners have said that the Forest Road site is not vital for the townÕs regeneration, which could mean that fresh plans may be submitted in the future.
The applicant was hoping to demolish the two shop units, the two flats above and an adjoining house opposite Heathcote Road and build a block of 12 flats with car parking at the rear and an entrance from Woodside Park.
The site lies within the new proposed town centre and Whitehill Town Council was opposed to the application, arguing that there is a recognised shortfall in shopping provision in Bordon and the loss of retail units would be harmful.
But case officer Keith Oliver said in his decision report that nine different shops have used the premises over the last ten years and failed.
Currently one of the units lies empty while the other is a toy shop.
The applicant argued, Mr Oliver said, that a takeaway was the only business likely to be viable, whichmight not be acceptable at the location.
The planning officer said only limited weight could be given to proposals to create a town centre for Bordon because objections to the plans have been lodged.
He did not believe the redevelopment ÒharmsÓ BordonÕs regeneration.
However, he refused the application under delegated powers because the three storey block proposed was too high and would be out of keeping.
He also doubted there was enough space for 12 flats, car parking and amenity space and raised objections to the proposed access.