DATES for two planning appeal hearings for potential food stores in Christchurch have been set.

The appeal hearings for the supermarket schemes at Beagle Technology and Meteor Retail Park in Somerford will take place later this month at Christchurch council.

The dates have been set, just after developers Quantum, who have permission to build a supermarket at the former Ministry of Defence site at Bailey Drive, confirmed they plan to submit revised plans for their multi-million pound scheme.

Blaming ‘turbulence’ in the supermarket sector, the Bournemouth-based developer said the size of the proposed Asda food store would be reduced but would still include affordable housing and new bridge and ferry access.

Initially, the two appeals were due to be decided by written representations.

But the Planning Inspectorate has now confirmed the appeals will be heard at hearings at Christchurch council.

Cllr Claire Bath, portfolio holder for economy and vice-chairman of the planning committee, said her concerns over the impact on the town centre still stand.

“I think my concerns from the word go was the effect on the town centre. That is the main economic power in Christchurch for all the retailers and my concern has been protecting that. That still stands.”

The appeal for Meteor Retail Park will take place in the council chamber on February 18.

Their application for the site off Somerford Road sought to amalgamate two proposed retail units on the site into the main food store, without increasing the size of the total retail space.

There was already existing permission for a supermarket on the site – formerly Stylesouth Interiors and PC World – along with two separate retail units but councillors refused permission last year.

And Simons Development Limited’s appeal for a Morrison’s supermarket at Beagle Technology will be heard on February 19. This could last two days.

Detailed plans for the supermarket were refused for the third time last year.

Both schemes were recommended for approval by planning officers.