A multi-million pound town centre redevelopment scheme has been dealt a blow after getting the thumbs down from irate business bosses.
NE Derbyshire District Council issued compulsory purchase orders on 42 properties in Clay Cross town centre earlier this year to make way for a new £22m retail development, set to create 400 jobs.
But the scheme has attracted 11 official objection
s, meaning a public inquiry now looks likely – a process which could take up to 18 months to complete.
Lee Hopkinson, manager of Bridge Street Motor Sales, said: "We wrote to put an objection in because we've been here 20 years and have a good reputation in the area."
A statement from NE Derbyshire said the council now hoped to open negotiations with owners affected by the CPO to reach an agreement for buying the properties prior to compulsory purchase.
However, if it fails in its bid and the objections are not withdrawn, a Government minister will arrange for a public inquiry to take place.
The minister can then confirm, modify or reject the CPO following the inquiry and consideration of the planning inspector's report.
If all objections are withdrawn and agreement is reached, then the minister will consider confirming the CPO without the need for a hearing, when the council will be able to take possession of the land and start work.
The scheme, which includes a supermarket, shops, new petrol station, pub and bus station is a partnership between NE Derbyshire District Council, developers GMI Rovinian and Derbyshire County Council.
* For more information about the CPO, visit www.ne-derbyshire.gov.uk or visit Council House, Saltergate, Chesterfield.
