Arundel mobile drinks vehicle plans rejected

Arun District Council’s licensing committee rejected an application by Sarah Knott for the facility in Mill Road, fearing it could cause an obstruction on the highway and create litter.

The application was opposed by three ward councillors and Arundel Chamber of Commerce.

Committee chairman Trevor Bence said: “On the face of it I really struggle with this one. I know Mill Road really well but I can’t see how that fits into anything that is currently on offer in Arundel.”

The applicant was not present at the hearing, which was concluded within 20 minutes.

There is no right to appeal through magistrates’ court – but a costly judicial review through the High Court could be lodged.

Arundel Chamber of Commerce unanimously voted to oppose the application at its monthly meeting, while ward councillors Paul Dendle and Robert Wheal have lodged objections.

Chamber chairman Ian Fenwick said: “Arundel Chamber of Commerce wish to totally oppose this application in the strongest way possible.

“There are many tea and coffee shops in the town struggling for survival. They pay rates etc and do not need further competition.

“As a town we do all possible to attract visitors to all shops in the town and do not want potential customers drawn away in Mill Road.”

The application calls for street trading consent, for drinks only, between Monday and Sunday from 7.30am to 6pm.

Mr Dendle and Mr Wheal, joined in their objection by county councillor Nigel Peters, argue the application is contrary to the town’s neighbourhood plan.

“The neighbourhood plan revealed that most residents didn’t want more facilities to buy coffee or tea,” Mr Dendle said.

“There are over 40 sites where you can do that in a town of 3,000.”

The committee refused the application, with one against and one abstention.