Keynsham High Street cashpoint plan refused

PLANS for a 24-hour cashpoint next to Keynsham Mini Market in the High Street have been refused.

Cardtronics UK Ltd wanted to install the Cashzone machine next to the main entrance of the shop at number 9, with associated signage.

But Bath & North East Somerset Council has refused planning permission, after concerns were raised about parking, highways and the visual impact of the proposed scheme.

The council’s highways team raised no objection, stating: “The width of the footway at this location is over 2.5 metres, and this means that there should not be a significant inconvenience when the ATM is in use.”

But Keynsham Town Council did object, saying that the Mini Market was near a pedestrian crossing.

It added: “This section of the High Street is frequently congested by double parking both sides of the road and on-pavement parking, making it difficult for buses and larger vehicles to navigate this section of the town.”

In its crime prevention design planning response, Avon & Somerset Police raised concerns about potential illegal parking if drivers decided to “park for a minute” to access the ATM.

It added that there was a risk that people queuing to use the ATM would block the footpath and access to the zebra crossing.

A council report noted that, of the comments received, 10 objected and two supported the proposals.

It stated: “The submitted plans illustrate existing inappropriate signage which is subject of an enforcement case. Officers invited revised plans showing this signage removed, with the ATM only being shown. The applicant did not submit revised information nor indicate this would be forthcoming.”

The council’s refusal notice said the existing signage was “harmful to the character and appearance of the high street.”

It added: “The omission of the requested further details of the ATM also raises public safety concerns.”