Mega store opposed

But people are split on whether the store should go ahead, with many believing it will enhance the home improvement market and encourage development in Nelson, submissions on the proposal show.

A resource consent application for the 2ha development has attracted 21 submissions - 13 in support and seven opposing it.

The remaining submission, by the Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce said it did not oppose the development but was "disappointed" it would happen on an important piece of industrial land.

Some submitters, including Transit New Zealand, said the proposal did not include anywhere near enough car parking spaces, with 251 fewer than the number required under the Nelson City Council's resource management plan.

Future Nelson Incorporated, formerly the Inner City Property Owners Association, said the development threatened the city centre's role as a retail "focal point".

Future Nelson said the new store was an "anchor" development, meaning it would attract complementary retailers to surround it, and would create a precedent for other commercial developments to set up on adjoining industrial land.

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