Kwik fix wall returned to the drawing board (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Kwik fix wall returned to the drawing board

9:35am Tuesday 19th February 2013 in News By William Tomaney

COUNCILLORS have deferred deciding on a retrospective planning application to retain a controversial concrete fence.

Kwik Fit applied for the 1.9m-high barrier to stay up on the route between Blackwell Street and Churchfields, next to the Peacock Inn, after a complaint about its safety led to planning officers discovering permission should originally have been applied for.

At a meeting of Wyre Forest District Council’s planning committee at Wyre Forest House on Tuesday, February 12, however, councillors decided talks should continue about an alternative such as a gateway.

Labour councillor Howard Martin said: “A gate could be put there that could be opened and closed.

“It would allow Kwik Fit to restrict access and it would be a deterrent for people using their forecourt as a rat run but it would stop lorries and large vans having to reverse back out on to Blackwell Street - which is a real safety issue.

“Some delivery vehicles which previously unloaded on Dudley Street are now unloading on Blackwell Street which is causing tailbacks to the Sainsbury’s traffic lights. I hope a sensible decision will get the situation resolved.”

Kwik Fit erected the wall to prevent drivers using the parking area of the motorist centre as an informal cut-through via Dudley Street but it led to fears from some traders as vehicles, including delivery lorries, struggled to turn around once they realised there was an obstruction.

Planning case officer Emma Anning had recommended the application for approval. It is unknown when a revised plan will come before the committee.