‘Superstructure’ removal fears

NEW Sainsbury’s plans to knock down part of an historic wall in Hind Street have been opposed by concerned civic leaders.

The supermarket chain wants to remove a brick ‘superstructure’ on the central car park dividing wall at the site.

Ottery Town Council planning committee members voted not to support proposals when they met last week.

“We’ve got to put our foot down - we seem to be caving in for everything,” said Councillor Tony Abbott.

“I vigorously oppose the removal of the wall - the Ottery brick should remain,” added Councillor Claire Wright.

“We’re demolishing Ottery’s history for commercial factors,” warned resident Angela Glanville in a letter to councillors.

Sainsbury’s says reducing the wall in height will improve sight lines across the supermarket car park for drivers and pedestrians to create a safer environment for shoppers.

The application is the latest in a long line of proposed changes to the planning permission the firm already has for a 20,000sq ft store at the site.

Although not listed in its own right, the wall is protected by listed building legislation.

Plans say its origins date back to post-medieval times.

Town councillors agreed to send a letter to English Heritage, expressing their concern and seeking their support in keeping the wall.

Planning authority East Devon District Council will consider the town’s view when it decides the fate of proposals.