Sainsbury's application in former pub building

The Ash Tree pub is no longer open

An application for Sainsbury's to open a new store in a former pub will be decided on Wednesday.

The Ash Tree, in Convent Road, Ashford, closed its doors officially in January 2023.

Councillors on Spelthorne Borough Council's planning committee are set to make a decision on the application from Sainsbury's, which officers say should be approved.

There were 206 letters of objection to the application, which included concerns about the loss of the pub, parking on the street, anti-social behaviour and "too many convenience stores within the area".

Concerns were also raised about the impact on smaller local businesses, while 79 letters of support said an ATM included in plans was needed and that the current empty pub was an "eyesore".

Proposals include a new lift at the back of the building, new sliding doors, removing the pub garden windows and installing a level access ramp.

A councillor requested the application be discussed at the meeting due to concerns about restricted parking for customers and large delivery vehicles.

It includes plans for 11 parking spaces, including one blue badge space and one fast charging space as well as a secure cycle rack for six bikes.