A HIGH Court Judge's ruling on the proposed Asda store in Cinderford sets a legal precedent that could blight future development throughout of the Forest, says Lydney councillor Alan Preest.

Coun Preest told Lydney Town Council on Monday that the ruling of Judge Rabinder Singh at a Judicial Review seriously criticised the Forest of Dean District Council's handling of the planning application for the store.

He added: "The judge's ruling against a new supermarket opening in Cinderford could have ramifications throughout the Forest of Dean.

"Currently Asda has a planning application for a new store in Lydney which is also being subjected to a Judicial Review, which is due to be heard in the summer.

"The district council's own policy might not stand up to a judge's scrutiny if an impact study is not carried out on the town – a document which the judge pointed out was missing from the Cinderford application."

Developer Andrew Coombs, of HE Coombs – the owners of the proposed site for Asda – said he was disappointed with the judge's decision, especially as the site has 'become a dumping ground'.

For more on this story, pick up a copy of The Forester this week.