Latest Expert Witness News

One store or two, retail expert witness tells probe

A retail palnning expert told a planning inquiry he could ‘see no overriding need’ for a Tesco superstore in an area of Sheffield situated close to a  proposed Asda store.

Expert witness Mark Finch, who has 20 years’ town planning experience, was a witness for Asda which is objecting to the Tesco at greenfield land off Ox Hill, Halfway, Sheffield. The local council rejected the scheme saying the proposal involved land needed for housing. Tesco is appealing Sheffield Council’s decision to reject its plans last March.

Mr Finch was speaking as the first of three retail experts at a resumed public inquiry held at Sheffield Town Hall. He referred to a council retail study in 2010 which showed there was some need for additional retail in the city. Mr Finch stated the need would be met by the Asda store, with no need for an additional store.

Retail experts Peter Gaits, witness for the council and expert Bob Robinson for Tesco are to speak at the inquiry in the next two days and concludes Friday.

back