The West Buckinghamshire Area Planning Committee met on Wednesday 10 June 2026, approving a controversial racquet centre development in the Green Belt and granting conditional permission for a Timpson kiosk at a Tesco store. The committee also confirmed the date of their next meeting and the availability of members for future site visits.

Racquet Centre Approved in Green Belt

The committee approved the demolition of an existing dwelling and the construction of a racquet centre, including paddle, pickleball, and tennis courts, along with a clubhouse and wellness centre, on land east of the A404 and north of Fieldhouse Lane in Marlow. This decision was made despite officers recommending refusal due to the development being considered inappropriate in the Green Belt.

The applicant, Mr Phil Basford of Marlow Racquet Club Ltd, argued that very special circumstances justified the development. These included the site being previously developed and well-screened, the fastest-growing sport of padel being inclusive and accessible, and the development aligning with the aims of the Little Marlow Country Park. Supporters highlighted the physical and mental well-being benefits, inclusive sporting opportunities, enhanced access to the countryside, and the development's sustainable location.

Councillor Alex Collingwood, who had called the application in, noted that the site had been previously used and was in the Green Belt, and that a site visit would be beneficial. Councillor Clive Harriss proposed the approval, citing the development's contribution to physical and mental well-being, inclusive access to sport, enhancement of countryside access, controlled development with limited sprawl potential, sustainable location, and high-quality design. Councillor Alex Collingwood seconded the proposal. The decision was made to approve the application, with authority delegated to the Service Director for Planning and Environment, in consultation with the Chairman, to finalise the conditions.

Timpson Kiosk at Tesco Approved

Conditional permission was granted for the installation of a Timpson key-cutting kiosk on hardstanding adjacent to the Tesco Superstore on Longwick Road in Princes Risborough. The application had been called in by local ward members, Councillors Gary Hall and Matthew Walsh, due to concerns about the impact on the town centre's high street and independent businesses.

The kiosk, a joint venture between Timpson and Tesco, would offer services such as key cutting, dry cleaning drop-off, and shoe repair. While local councillors and residents expressed concerns that this would divert trade from existing high street businesses and exacerbate parking issues at the Tesco store, officers noted that competition between businesses is not a material planning consideration. The Heritage Officer confirmed that the revised scheme, which omitted external and illuminated signage, would preserve the character and appearance of the Princes Risborough Conservation Area.

Councillor Arman Alam proposed the approval, seconded by Councillor Michael West, and conditional permission was granted subject to the conditions and informatives outlined in the officer's report.

Next Meeting and Site Visits

The committee confirmed that the next meeting would be held on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, at 6:30 pm. Members also confirmed their availability for site visits on Tuesday, 30 June 2026, should they be required for future agenda items.