New retail development approved for Dunbar

The application, from East Oakwood Developments Ltd, was for three retail stores, a garden centre, parking and associated works. 

Consent is already in place for two retail units plus infrastructure such as roads, street lighting and drainage, so the new application sought to add one more unit, plus a car park with a total of 350 spaces, including 35 EV spaces, 20 disabled spaces and seven parent and child spaces plus 40 covered cycle spaces. The proposed retail stores would be operated by Lidl, B&M and M&S Food.

A total of five written representations were received, three of which objected to the proposals on the grounds of the potential increase in car use, lack of biodiversity enhancements and the proposed detrimental impact on Dunbar Town Centre. One representation was in favour of the plans and one just made comment. 

Planners had recommended approval of the plans. Following a debate, members voted to approve the development subject to a condition regarding the submission and approval of strategies to promote Dunbar town centre.