Smithton could get multimillion-pound new Home Bargain store with around 40 jobs expected to be created
Plans for a new Home Bargains store in Smithton - expected to cost around £5 million - are to be decided at Highland Council’s south planning committee next week.
The development appears to enjoy broad support within the local area: though it received 26 objections, 112 comments came forward in support of the move that is expected to create around 40 jobs.
It is the second such development to come forward in recent months in Inverness with the recently vacated Wickes base on Longman Road set to house another Home Bargains while the chain also opened an outlet in Dingwall this year.
If planning permission is granted by councillors then the store will be located about 55 metres north of Cranmore Drive but its location has proved to be a sticking point for those against the development.
Council officers have recommended approval but they also noted there were 17 points of material planning issues raised by the 26 objectors, including its location and proximity to a busy junction.
The proposal is for a large 3252 sqm gross floor space retail unit incorporating food and non-food sales, a garden centre and café, and associated parking, access, active travel routes, public realm and landscaping.
The site has permission in principle for town centre use which was granted by the Stratton New Town planning permission – that envisions a diverse mix of uses, including shopping, high level of accessibility.
It also includes qualities of character and identity which create a sense of place, wider economic and social activity during the day and in the evening, and integration with residential areas.
The application will be determined on Tuesday.