A row has erupted over plans to build a coffee shop over a pedestrian walkway.
Charville Estates has applied for planning permission to build a single-storey conservatory-style coffee bar on land along unit 16 of the Grove Centre, Witham.
The proposed coffee shop would replace a walkway which runs from the Grove Centre through to Maldon Road.
The walkway is not a public right of way, but has been used by Witham residents and shoppers for many years.
Traders in Maldon Road are furious and say the development would destroy their businesses by cutting them off from Witham's main shopping area.
Carol Patient, who runs dress shop A Change of A Dress, said: "The effect on my business would be devastating.
"My main shop front faces the alleyway. If it's closed then I would think any passing trade would go."
A planning statement on behalf of Charville Estates read: "The land in question originally formed a pedestrian route through Crofters Wine Bar to Maldon Road.
"However, Crofters has recently been sold and the new owners have terminated the right of way previously enjoyed by the Grove Centre.
But Robert Pulford, managing director of Charville Estates, said the previous owner of the wine bar terminated the right of way.
Published Thursday, January 9, 2003
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