Representation by Shell U.K. Limited (Shell U.K. Limited)
- Date submitted
- 4 November 2022
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
Shell U.K. Limited – Doggetts Lane Service Station I confirm that we are instructed by Shell U.K. Limited which owns the freehold interests in Doggetts Lane Service Station located adjacent to the westbound carriageway of the A12 trunk road, just to the south west of Marks Tey. Doggetts Lane Services provides strategic comprehensive services to motorists on the heavily trafficked A12. These are important strategic facilities providing the opportunity for the motorist to obtain rest, refreshment and fuel and use toilet facilities. Under the provisions of Circular 02/2013, Government policy recognises the importance of such facilities in providing for the welfare of the travelling motorist including all categories of traffic and enhancing road safety. These policy provisions have been reiterated in the consultation documentation in relation to the proposed update to Circular 02/2013 published in Summer 2022. The proposed scheme would have a serious and adverse effect on the trading operation of my client’s service station. Petrol filling stations are trade related properties and trading performance is directly affected by certain key factors including accessibility and prominence to substantial traffic flows. In respect of Doggetts Lane Service Station, the effect of the Scheme would be to take the petrol station ‘offline’ and away from the main flow of A12 traffic, and consequently the site would cease to operate effectively as a trunk road service station. The proposals would threaten the viability of this facility. As part of the consultation processes in relation to the A12 Chelmsford to A120 Widening Scheme I submitted representations dated 16th August 2021 and 29th November 2019 on behalf of my client stating the likely impact of the scheme proposals to my clients property and requesting further dialogue with National Highways in relation to the scheme. I confirm that discussions have been held with National Highways but that the overall position in relation to the scheme effects on my clients property remain unchanged. Whilst not opposing the principle of the Scheme, my client objects to the proposals in respect of their adverse effect on Doggetts Lane Service Station. My client reserves the right to make further representations in relation to the scheme.