Sportscotland raise concerns over Larkhall Tesco proposals

Feb 18 2010 by Gary Fanning, Hamilton Advertiser

A NATIONAL sports agency could oppose plans for a major supermarket in Larkhall.

Sportscotland have raised concerns over proposals for a new Tesco store in the town.

Last November, Tesco submitted proposals to build a store and car park on land occupied by Larkhall Thistle and part of Raploch Bowling Club at 75-77 Raploch Street.

However, sportscotland said they would object to the development if there wasn’t proper justification for Raploch Bowling Club losing one of their greens as part of the proposed development.

They have no objection to Larkhall Thistle’s relocation provided there is a legal agreement between the council and developer that the new football club’s facilities are to be fully operational before any development on the application site.

Sportscotland have demanded to see the wording of the legal agreement and insist it should be completed prior to the issuing of any planning permission.

They have also requested information on the number of members at Raploch Bowling Club and how the needs of the club can be met with the loss of a bowling green.

A letter from sportscotland to the council last month advises “that in the absence of this requested information being received, i.e., justification for the loss of the bowling green and appropriate legal agreements being completed which ensure the works outlined in the supporting statement are delivered, sportscotland are likely to object to the application”.

Larkhall Community Council are also concerned about the loss of a bowling green in the town.

One community councillor said: “Planning law says that sports facilities must be replaced like for like or better.

“It means that the developers would have to come up with a new bowling green elsewhere in the town.”

Asda have submitted proposals to build an £18m store and petrol station in Broomhill Gate which is behind Larkhall Leisure Centre.

A number of residents have opposed to both Asda and Tesco’s plans.

They are mainly concerned about traffic congestion outside their homes if the supermarket plans are approved.

However, both Tesco and Asda believe their proposals, as submitted, will deal with any traffic issues which may arise.