Garden centre's £1m re-fit could be torn down
Published: 30 November 2016 - Jenny Wonnacott
Charnley's Home and Garden store in Dalton has recently undergone a £1m extension, but the business' new mezzanine level could face being torn down after a vote by Barrow Borough Council.
Expansions to Charnley Home and Garden have apparently been undertaken without the proper permissions
According to local press, owner Marc Charnley did not apply for planning permission for the installation of a mezzanine level which sells household furniture. He also enclosed the central courtyard and resurfaced the car park without permission.
This latter move has allegedly caused uproar within the community because it has reduced the number of car parking spaces, meaning customers have to park on the busy 60mph road neighbouring the premises.
At a recent planning meeting, Barrow Borough Council voted for the building to be demolished as a result of this breach. Mr Charnley, who has allegedly said he was unaware of any breaches to planning laws, can appeal against this decision.
An investigation will now have to take place to see what the nature of the breaches are. Said Dalton councillor Ann Thurlow, " "There is less space for parked cars but the business has expanded so that creates a problem. If it was just garden furniture that would be fine and it also has a cafe which is fine; but then when you move into living room furniture and sofas that is completely different altogether.
"The bottom line is that you and me would have to go through the proper channels so why is he any different?"
Mr Charnley, meanwhile, has said in a statement, "We are obviously very upset and incredibly shocked at hearing the decision announced today. We have been selling furniture for eight years without any problems so are understandably confused at the concerns raised.
"We believe there are easy and viable solutions to all the issues detailed in the report and only want to work in co-operation with Barrow Borough Council to implement these.
"We are very worried, as are our staff and we would like to say thank you for all the messages of support we have received over the last few days."
The investigation could mean another 12 months before a decision is made on the business' fate.