9th december

Re: Amber Food Stores - 17 Western Road

I am writing to advise you that I have visited the store at 17 Western Road , Hove this afternoon and met with the operator.

Further to my investigations from the planning perspective, I am satisfied that there has not been a change in the use of the premises and I will therefore be closing my file in this matter.

It is clear to me that the owner has changed his business practices in the last few months and, from the representations made to me, this includes the cessation of the majority of the wholesale/distribution element of the business. It would be lawful for the store concerned to operate an ancillary operation of storage and distribution and, I believe a small amount of “pick-ups” from the store are likely to continue. I have, however, strongly made the point that this must remain ancillary and from the information that has been provided to me, this does appear to be the case.

Finally I advised the owner to ensure that he is always compliant with the law, if he remains such, then he will not experience any further problems. I advised him that the principal cause for complaints appears to be mostly related to the parking of his van in a potentially dangerous position and the obstruction of the footways. I insisted that he complies with all the relevant regulations and that he operates in a lawful manner consistently.

As stated, based upon the information I have obtained and witnessed, I am satisfied that a breach of planning control no longer exists at the property and I will therefore be closing my file accordingly.

Should you become concerned at any future time that a change of use may have again occurred, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank you for bringing this matter to my attention and I hope that the above is clear and informative.

Kind regards

Matt Gest