Of course they have the right to apply. I totally agree.

But is it right that they seem to be saying that if you don't give it to us we will leave the building looking shabby? Is it right that they are saying if you don't give us planning permission they will make it an entertainment venue and play loud music?

I don't.

I also think it's the local peoples right to have some say in what happens in their local area, to be able to influence the type of businesses that THEY want. Don't you Roz?

I also think it's up to the local authority to take all this into account and to be able to reject any businesses application for planning permission on the grounds that it is not in the best interests of the local community, be it a church or a supermarket or whatever...