A DECISION by borough planners to reject plans for a takeaway has been overturned by an inspector.
The application was made by Tahir Majeed at 20 Overpool Road, Great Sutton.
Mr Majeed told planning officers at Cheshire West and Chester Council he was seeking approval for the change of use of the empty shop, located in the parade, within the hours of 11am and 11pm seven days a week.
The highway authority pointed out that, although parking bays were available fronting the shops, Overpool Road itself was busy, particularly at peak commuter times in the morning and afternoon/early evening.
There was a record of injury and accidents and the highway engineer believed the change of use would be detrimental due to the potential for accidents and increased traffic.
He recommended refusal.
Twenty five neighbours were consulted, with three writing to the council arguing there were already many hot food takeaways in the area and Overpool was considered to be a trouble-spot.
They were worried about the possibility of increased litter and nuisance and the effect on traffic.
Planners believed the takeaway would have an unduly detrimental effect on nearby residents and the character of the area. There would be an increased risk of a serious accident.
The application was recommended for refusal and permission was withheld, leading Mr Majeed to appeal.
Inspector Keith Manning did not believe there were an unacceptable number of takeaways in the area and felt the premises would be a 'reasonable distance' from homes.
Although there had been objections and a petition against a takeaway due to the possibility of anti-social behaviour, the inspector pointed out there was no record of any objection from the police.
The inspector allowed the appeal and granted Mr Majeed permission.
