Controversial plans allowing a Beckenham landmark building to be turned into a Tesco have been approved, despite a council previously rejecting them.

The Government has overruled Bromley Council’s rejection of a scheme for the Chinese Garage in Wickham Road.

Residents had feared that a new Tesco store at the building would lead to big traffic and parking problems for the area.

The application was made to remove conditions relating to opening times which would enable Tesco to move in.


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Residents were quick to object to the plans, saying it would have a “disastrous” effect on smaller local shops and cafes.

There were also concerns over how the roads would deal with big increases of cars using the store.

Tesco said the store would be used to “top up” shopping and not necessarily be something people drive to, instead attracting passing trade.

Now, more than two years after the plans emerged, a planning inspector has overturned the council’s rejection.

The inspector said: “On that basis its use is mainly for top-up shopping and the appellants’ assessment of additional traffic movements and the likely extent of pass-by trips are credible.

“While the convenience store, in combination with the 2 permitted developments, would contribute to increased traffic queues in peak hours, it would do so only to a small degree.

“There would not be a severe impact on the road network. The proposed top-up convenience store would be acceptable with regard to highway safety and the free flow of traffic.”

The appeal of Bromley Council’s decision was heard at an inquiry in April.


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The plans allowed for two new retail stores and two two-bedroom flats.

The Chinese Garage is a grade II listed building, dating back to 1928.

It has been used as a motor garage and showroom, and has a distinctive canopy extended over the pumps.

Bromley Council was contacted for comment.