Broad backing for town centre plans
PLANS to transform the look of Penicuik town centre have received the broad support of civic leaders.
Penicuik and District Community Council has agreed to back LJR Properties' planning application but has raised a couple of concerns.
The company is seeking consent to create a roundabout where the bus terminus is. Access would be gained to Imrie Place car park and the Somerfield car park from the roundabout.
A new shop unit, possibly for Lidl, would be constructed at the present entrance to the Imrie Place car park and another smaller unit would be created to the south of Somerfield.
A southbound bus stop would be established opposite the northbound bus stop. There would be two pedestrian crossings either side of the roundabout on the A701.
Community council planning convener Margaret Coull explained the Imrie Street car park would have 52 parking spaces and six disabled spaces. She hoped the arrival of another major store would encourage more people into the town centre.
"My main concern is the proposed site for the new bus stop," she said. "As you come round the corner, it is dangerous enough as it is."
Community council transport convener David Ewart doubted there would be sufficient room at the proposed bus stop for the number of buses which used the terminus.
Secretary Mike Jackson pointed out the planning application was "virtually identical" to one previously approved by the council but agreed that bus numbers had increased since then.
"I wonder if it is possible to take the pavement back eight to 10 feet so they would have the opportunity for the buses to double park?" he asked.
Community councillor Andy Gardiner said there was an issue with the two pedestrian crossings, which he assumed would both be controlled by lights. "It means we could have very slow moving traffic. What if people are going to shop at Somerfield and Lidle? Are they going to be traipsing across with trolleys?"
Summing up the debate, chairman Ian Watson noted that the community council generally supported the plans but had concerns about the safety and siting of the bus stop and the proximity of the two pedestrian crossings.
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