RESIDENTS in South Cerney are up in arms about plans for a new Co-op shop in the village.

A planning application to turn the former Mitie building on the High Street into a convenience store with houses behind it has been approved by Cotswold District Council’s (CDC) Planning Committee, much to the dismay of many villagers.

South Cerney resident Dulcie James said she, and other people in the village, were not originally opposed to the site being developed into a few houses but did have concerns about the shop.

“A shop positioned here in the village is nothing short of dangerous,” she said.

“Our objections go beyond simply being objections, we have grave concerns.”

Villagers are worried that with a new shop, customers will be parking wherever they can outside it, meaning the road will become congested and pedestrians could struggle to cross safely.

“I for one do not want to see any life compromised for the sake of a convenience store,” Ms James added.

“If there is one to be built then it needs to be built in a purpose-built place away from a busy road and with adequate parking.”

The High Street is one of the main crossing points for children going to and from Ann Edward’s Primary School.

Currently the village has no pedestrian crossing or lollipop lady in place.

Residents are worried that with more traffic pupils lives will be at risk.

Earlier this week around 70 residents gathered in front of the building to protest against the new Co-operative planned for the traditional Cotswold village.

Resident Danny Stewart said he thought CDC’s decision to approve the application was staggering.

“The requirement for another shop in the village is just not there,” he said. “It will not benefit the village in any way, shape or form.”

Another villager, Reg Rogers, said he went to the CDC planning meeting, at which the decision to approve the plan was taken, and he felt that the committee had already made up their minds before they had heard the views of the village.

He said: “Children cross that road every day. It’s a very dangerous place for them to cross with all those cars parked there. This is going to be an accident blackspot.”