Policy information sourced from the Caterham, Chaldon and Whyteleafe Neighbourhood Plan

CCW8: RETAINING AND ENHANCING CONVENIENCE SHOPS OUTSIDE CATERHAM VALLEY AND CATERHAM HILL TOWN CENTRES

Proposals which result in the loss of existing local and neighbourhood convenience shops will be resisted unless the applicant has demonstrated that there is no reasonable prospect of the site or premises being used for other retail or community uses due to lack of viability. In such circumstances, applicants will be expected to demonstrate that the existing use is no longer viable evidenced by a viability report and market assessment that demonstrates that the site has been marketed for not less than 12 months and freely exposed to the market for alternative retail or community uses. The report should indicate the marketing undertaken and evidence all expressions of interest and the steps taken to evaluate these. The costs associated to assess such marketing and viability reports are to be met by the applicant including the costs incurred by the local planning authority associated with undertaking a peer review of the viability assessment to assess its veracity.

Proposals to improve the quality and appearance of shop fronts and signage and which have appropriate regard to Policy CCW6 will be supported.