RESIDENTS have vowed to continue their fight against a store which began trading in their area without planning permission.

Planning chiefs at St Helens Council have since turned down Magnet's proposals for a kitchen manufacturing outlet on the site of the former Hattons Garage in Prescot Road, Grange Park. But despite that, the shop, which has been trading since Boxing Day, is still open while bosses continue to negotiate with the council.

The controversy started when local residents, furious that Magnet had opened without permission, protested to the council on the grounds that the store would cause traffic congestion, and be an eyesore with heavy goods vehicles loading and unloading in the area.

Petitions were signed and victory for the neighbours appeared to be sealed when councillors voted to turn down Magnet's application on the grounds of traffic safety.

A spokeswoman for the council said: "We looked at all the issues affected by Magnet trading on Prescot Road and in the end, concluded that planning permission could not be granted because of traffic problems likely to be caused by the shop."

However, she added: "Magnet haven't broken any rules by trading before planning permission was decided on and if they are considering making an appeal, there is nothing to stop them continuing to trade."

But John Higgins, a Prescot Road resident who led the fight against Magnet, said this made a mockery of the whole law.

"This has brought to light a major flaw in council planning laws. However, our original bid to stop permission was successful and we are committed to continue fighting against the store on the grounds that it will cause traffic accidents and congestion."

Magnet were rumoured to be preparing an appeal against the decision but a spokesman could not confirm this. He told the Star: 'While we are disappointed at this decision, we are currently continuing our discussions with the council to resolve the situation.'

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