Yahoo News Appeal lodged over decision to reject chip shop plan at former beauty salon
An appeal has been lodged over a decision to refuse permission for a new fish and chip shop which objectors said would have a "negative impact on public health".
In March Hartlepool Borough Council's planning committee discussed proposals to convert the vacant 91 Elwick Road, last used as a beauty salon, into a hot food takeaway. The application from Mr Manminder Singh Dhatt stated the premises was "a perfect site for his fish and chip shop".
However the plans were refused by councillors, in line with recommendations from council officers, with three reasons given for the decision. This included it being ruled the proposal "would undermine efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and would have a potential negative impact on public health", therefore conflicting with council policies.
Other reasons included the site not being in a "suitable location" and that the external flue duct would cause "unacceptable harm to the character and appearance" of the building. An appeal has now been lodged over the refusal on behalf of the applicant, meaning it will go to the national Planning Inspectorate for a final ruling.
A supporting statement, submitted by planning agent Gordon Henderson, argues a fish and chip shop is different to other hot food takeaways and therefore should not be treated in the same way. It adds "the calorific value of the meal compares favourably" to outlets such as pizza and kebab shops.
The statement concludes the site is within a "high density residential area and many people do not want to go into town centres" and therefore the location is "more sustainable than an existing busy retail road". March's meeting heard three objections had been submitted to the original proposals from residents, including a petition with around 10 signatures.
Anne Saunders, who lives nearby, spoke to voice her concerns over the parking issues and traffic congestion the development could cause, along with potentially increasing antisocial behaviour in the area. Additionally the council's director of public health, Craig Blundred, submitted concerns the plans would "contribute to poor health and health inequalities through the increase in the availability of high fat and sugar foods".
Mr Henderson, speaking at the meeting, argued the proposals would see the vacant building "brought back into life" and it is "each individual's decision whether or not to eat fish and chips".
