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Bognor Regis Supermarket Approved Despite Resident Concerns

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. ermarket-approved-despite-resident-concerns.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 16:12 GMT by BBC
      Locales: England, UNITED KINGDOM

Bognor Regis, UK - February 15th, 2026 - Arun District Council has given the green light to a controversial supermarket development on the outskirts of Bognor Regis, a decision met with disappointment and concern from many local residents. The approved project, slated for construction on a currently undeveloped greenfield site near the Summer Lane roundabout, comprises a substantial retail unit - confirmed to be a branch of 'Value Foods', a rapidly expanding national chain - alongside a significant car park boasting over 200 spaces. While council officials highlight projected economic benefits and job creation, critics argue the long-term costs to the environment and local commerce are too high.

The decision, reached late last week following a heated council meeting, follows months of vocal opposition from community groups and individual residents. The primary anxieties voiced centred around a predictable increase in traffic congestion on already strained local roads, particularly impacting the Summer Lane and Hotham Road junctions. Concerns regarding the environmental impact of building on greenfield land - a designated area of ecological importance, home to a diverse range of bird species and small mammals - also proved prominent. Numerous petitions circulated, gathering over 1500 signatures, urging the council to reconsider the plans.

"This isn't about being against progress," stated Margaret Bellweather, a leading figure in the 'Save Our Green Spaces' campaign. "It's about responsible development. This site is a vital green lung for our town. Destroying it for another supermarket, when we already have several within a reasonable distance, feels short-sighted and frankly, unnecessary. The traffic impact assessment provided by the developers was, in our view, grossly optimistic."

The council, however, maintains that the economic advantages outweigh the negative aspects. Councillor David Harding, chair of the Planning Committee, emphasized the project's potential to create approximately 150 full and part-time jobs, boosting the local economy. "We understand and acknowledge the concerns raised by residents," Councillor Harding explained. "However, we believe this development represents a significant investment in Bognor Regis, providing much-needed employment opportunities and improved shopping facilities for our community. We have attached stringent conditions to the approval, including a comprehensive traffic management plan and substantial environmental mitigation measures to minimize the impact."

These mitigation measures include the planting of a 'green buffer' around the perimeter of the site, the implementation of sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) to manage rainwater runoff, and a commitment from Value Foods to utilize energy-efficient technologies within the store. The traffic management plan involves widening sections of Summer Lane, upgrading the roundabout, and introducing a signal-controlled pedestrian crossing. However, local transport analysts remain skeptical. "Widening the road is a temporary fix," comments Dr. Eleanor Vance, a transport planning consultant. "It will likely encourage more traffic in the long run, negating any initial benefits. A more sustainable solution would have involved investing in public transport and promoting cycling and walking."

The approval also raises questions about the future of existing local businesses in Bognor Regis town centre. Several independent grocery stores and convenience shops fear they will be unable to compete with the larger Value Foods supermarket, potentially leading to closures and job losses. The Bognor Regis Chamber of Commerce has expressed its concerns, calling for the council to implement measures to support local traders. "We're not against competition," stated Chamber President, Richard Davies. "But it needs to be a level playing field. We need to see the council actively promoting the unique benefits of shopping locally and investing in the revitalization of the town centre."

Value Foods has pledged to work with the local community and support local initiatives. However, scepticism remains high among those who believe the supermarket's primary focus will inevitably be on maximizing profits, rather than fostering a thriving local economy. Construction is expected to begin in late spring, with the supermarket anticipated to open its doors in the winter of 2026. The debate, however, is far from over, as residents prepare to monitor the impact of the development on their town and hold the council accountable for ensuring the promised mitigation measures are effectively implemented.