A local shop owner in Middleton endured a 10-month battle with Rochdale council over planning permission issues for his shop’s makeover.
- Chris Daly’s refurbishment of Peeco Ltd lacked the necessary planning approval, leading to initial disputes with the council.
- Despite a failed appeal and potential costs of £20,000, Daly received support from locals who believed in the shopfront’s improvement.
- The council’s leader, Coun Neil Emmott, ultimately reversed the decision, bringing relief to Daly after months of stress.
- The case highlights the challenges small business owners face with planning regulations and the impact of community support.
Chris Daly, the owner of Peeco Ltd in Middleton, embarked on a shop makeover at the end of 2023. His improvements to the shopfront, however, were executed without prior planning permission, leading him into a protracted 10-month dispute with Rochdale Council. In January, when Daly sought retrospective approval from the council, his request was declined, with directives to revert the shop exterior to its original state.
Amidst the ongoing conflict, Daly found significant backing from local residents who agreed that the new design was an enhancement. Undeterred by the initial setback, Daly appealed to the Planning Inspectorate. Despite the appeal being dismissed, the support of the community remained steadfast, reflecting a collective belief in the benefits of the new shop facade.
Facing the daunting prospect of spending approximately £20,000 to undo the changes, Daly expressed profound concern for his business’s viability. He described the council’s position as harsh and revealed the severe personal and professional stress it caused. At one point, Daly considered escalating the matter to a High Court judicial review or relocating his business to Cheshire.
In a sudden and unexpected development, Daly received communication from Rochdale Council that shifted the course of events. Council leader Coun Neil Emmott informed him that there would be no further action against his business. This turnaround was both a victory for Daly and a testament to the power of community backing in local business affairs.
Coun Emmott acknowledged the positive impact of Daly’s renovations, emphasizing the aesthetic improvements to the streetscape. His assurance of no further interference provided Daly with immense relief, reviving his commitment to his business. Daly’s gratitude extended to the local supporters who shared in his struggle throughout each challenging phase of the ordeal.
Daly’s experience not only underscores the complex nature of planning regulations for small enterprises but also exemplifies the influential role that community endorsement can play in business advocacy. It sheds light on the potential for policymakers and business leaders to find common ground in enhancing local commerce.
The resolution of Chris Daly’s dispute with Rochdale Council marks a significant point of relief and underscores the crucial role of community support for local businesses.
