CONTROVERSIAL plans to open another coffee shop in Christchurch town centre have been approved on appeal.

A petition created by the owner of an existing coffee shop on High Street led to the councillors refusing the proposals from chain Coffee#1.

Objectors hit out at the development as it would introduce a 15th business selling hot drinks to the town centre.

However, Coffee#1 launched an appeal against this decision and successfully obtained permission to operate a store in the former Shoe Zone premises.

A Government-appointed planning inspector disagreed with the decision made by Christchurch Borough Council’s planning committee, who rejected the scheme last year as they felt the balance of food outlets to retail outlets would tip too far.

Inspector Sophie Edwards’ report said: “I accept that the council is seeking to preserve the retail function of Christchurch Town Centre and is concerned with the proliferation of non-retail uses within this area.

“However, rather than adversely affecting the vitality and viability of Christchurch Town Centre, the proposed use would complement the offer in this area and attract footfall for longer periods of the day and evening, which in turn would be beneficial to existing retailers.”

Mike Ismail, director and owner of Baggies Coffee House, obtained 100 signatures on his petition against the rival business opening in the town.

Reacting to the appeal decision, Mr Ismail said: “It is very disappointing, especially when you consider how many coffee shops are already in the town.

“The situation is just getting crazy with more coffee shops opening up.

“It is disappointing to see the Government is not supporting the policies they made in the first place.”

In November, members of the council’s planning committee rejected the change of use application despite recommendations from officers to approve it.

Mr Ismail told the meeting the local authority’s policy guideline of 30 per cent food outlets in the shopping area had already been reached.

Town centre ward councillor Peter Hall recommended refusal of the scheme and said: “A lot of the businesses are struggling. Why make an exception here?”

While many councillors supported his concerns, Colin Jamieson said he did not believe the local authority could defend the decision on appeal.

Elliot Jones, agent for Coffee#1, told the committee: “We know the local plan position... that said the proposal would lead only to a slight increase. To rigidly apply the threshold limit would not accurately reflect market conditions. We have a long standing track record of restoring listed buildings.”

Coffee#1 launched in 2001 and operate a number of stores across Dorset, including in Winton, Southbourne, Parkstone and Poole.

Dismissing the issue regarding competition between traders, Ms Edwards’ report said: “Concerns have been raised by third parties regarding the competition which would occur as a result of the proposal. However, this is not a planning consideration which would, therefore, have no bearing on my decision.”