Sainsbury’s plans to convert a Homebase store in Bromsgrove face objections from Morrisons, citing potential negative impacts on local supermarkets.
Bromsgrove: Last year, Sainsbury’s made a deal to buy 10 Homebase stores. They plan to turn them into supermarkets, creating about 1,000 jobs. One of these stores is at Brook Retail Park.
However, Morrisons objected to this plan. They filed a complaint on the Bromsgrove District Council planning website. Morrisons claims the new store conflicts with local planning rules and could hurt nearby supermarkets.
The objection letter from Morrisons pointed out that the impact on local stores was underestimated. They noted that town center food stores are struggling and could be harmed by a new supermarket outside the center.
Morrisons believes the proposal should be denied. They argue it doesn’t meet the required tests for planning permission.
Sainsbury’s has now withdrawn their original planning application. They plan to submit a new one, but the main details will stay the same.
The new application will allow food and non-food items to be sold from the existing Homebase store. It will also include more information on sustainability and waste management.
A spokesperson for Sainsbury’s said they are excited about the new store. They believe it will offer more food choices for the community and create job opportunities.
They look forward to hearing feedback on their plans from the local community.
