A ‘rat run’ used by dozens of local motorists is now out of bounds following alterations made to Lime Street in Olney as part of a planning obligation relating to the development of the former tannery site. In the past, motorists coming into Olney from Milton Keynes have been able to take a short cut into Weston Road thus avoiding some of the traffic problems in the High Street. Now they will no longer be able to do so as a one way traffic order has now been implemented. The order permits the flow of traffic heading south-east, but prohibits north-west traffic from a point approximately 65 metres from the junction with Weston Road for a distance of approximately 61 metres. The scheme also involves the provision of double yellow lines from a point 64 metres south of the junction with Weston Road continuing for a distance of 62 metres in a south-easterly direction.

Whilst the implementation of the one-way traffic restriction was not controversial in itself, there has been a great deal of concern about alterations made to Lime Street at its junction with Bridge Street. Kerbed footpaths have now been included on both sides of the carriageway, along with some substantial metal bollards to prevent parking on those footpaths. Whilst this in itself is most laudable, the scheme has resulted in the loss of several on-street parking bays. Parking is notoriously difficult in this part of the town anyway, so it remains to be seen how local residents will cope once the scheme is completed.

Alterations under way in Lime Street, Olney   (Click on image to enlarge)

Milton Keynes Council has finally received a set of planning applications relating to the proposed new Tesco Express store at 16-17 Market Place, Olney.

The applications are as follows: -

Number: 08/01386/ADV (Advert Application)

ADVERTISEMENT CONSENT FOR ONE EXTERNALLY ILLUMINATED PROJECTING SIGN AND ONE EXTERNALLY ILLUMINATED FASCIA SIGN at 16-17 Market Place, Olney MK46 4BA for Tesco Stores Ltd.

Number: 08/01387/FUL (Full Application)

INSTALATION OF PLANT EQUIPMENT AND ASSOCIATED SCREENING at 16-17 Market Place, Olney MK46 4BA for Tesco Stores Ltd.

Number: 08/01389/FUL (Full Application)

INSTALLATION OF NEW SHOP FRONT INCLUDING ATM* UNIT at 16-17 Market Place, Olney for Tesco Stores Ltd.

Local residents will now have the opportunity to comment on these applications, which became valid on 6th August, although they should be mindful that such comments should be confined to valid planning reasons only. The proposed store is situated within the Olney Conservation Area.

The planning applications were considered by the Planning Liaison Committee of Olney Town Council on the evening of Monday 18th August. Members were concerned about possible noise from the air conditioning plant and freezers, as most of this plant is at first floor level and close to local dwellings. It was also felt that there was no need or justification for a further ATM in this area. Olney Town Council has no planning powers itself, but is able to pass on its comments to Milton Keynes Council.

(*ATM = automated telling machine - i.e. cash dispenser)