Brewery opposes council’s attempt to develop car park

The council granted permission to upgrade the site at a Planning Committee meeting this month but almost immediately the brewery, which has a history of objecting to proposed redevelopments from the council, lodged an objection which could see the case go to Judicial Review.

The council wants to resurface the car park and make a number of other improvements.

It aims to make it easier and safer for drivers, and to encourage people into the town centre for the benefit of businesses.

The car park has been the subject of a protracted battle with Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery, which the council claims has “repeatedly stifled” attempts by it to undertake the work required.

Chief Executive of Selby District Council, Martin Connor, said, “Yet again we’re being taken through a legal process which we believe is unnecessary, costly for the public purse and goes against the needs of people living in Tadcaster and the surrounding villages.

“We don’t believe the process we’ve been through in granting planning permission for these improvements is flawed, and we’ll fight this Judicial Review.

“We want to do what is right for the people of Tadcaster – and that is to provide a decent car park in the centre of this market town.

“Not only does this directly benefit local residents, but it would also encourage visitors into the town who’ll use local shops and services.

“This is about supporting the future of Tadcaster, but once again we face a legal battle.”

The improvement proposal involves resurfacing the whole car park, marking out 143 parking bays, with disabled spaces and provision for motorcyclists, improvements to the entrance and exit, and drainage work.

A spokesman at Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery declined to comment.

There has been a history of problems between the brewery, Selby District Council and North Yorkshire County Council.

As the primary land owner in the area Sam Smith’s Brewery has often found itself at odds with Selby District Council’s vision for the town. These issues include the state of the central car park and housing which have frustrated residents and traders alike.

For small businesses in particular the last few years have been a tough time and the Chamber of Trade has constantly lobbied for things to be done which will help the town flourish.