Co-op urged to talk over traffic and pedestrian safety concerns in Petworth

Planning committee chairman Rob Evans told fellow councillors at a full meeting last night (Thursday, November 17) a plan for windows and internal arrangements had been received by Chichester District Council: “They consider these the last remaining points over which they have any control,” he said.

But Mr Evans said the town council still had concerns over the use of the forecourt in front of the building: “If the planters are removed I confidently predict there will be ‘fly’ parking on what is basically free parking. Delivery vans will have no option when they load and unload, but to obstruct the A272.”

He said he was also concerned about customers crossing the road close to a hazardous bend: “customer safety is of paramount important given the demographics of Petworth.”

The town council wants the Co-op to place bollards on the forecourt and WSCC to install a pedestrian crossing: “Petworth really wants a bigger Co-op,” said Mr Evans, “but we have to work together in the spirit of compromise because it is in a very sensitive area for trading and traffic on the busy A272.”

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