Plan for two takeaway shops is thrown out

A CONTROVERSIAL plan to open two adjoining  hot-takeaway food shops in a former betting office has been thrown out by Warrington planning chiefs.
The proposal in Long Lane, Warrington, was opposed by local councillor Mike Hannon and by the Longford Residents Association.
Members of the borough’s development management committee were told that when planning officers visited the site they found it was being used unlawfully for the sale of fireworks.
Cllr Hannon said he objected to the application on highway grounds.
He said traffic issues were  major concern with short-cutting on the A49 taking place on a daily basis and transporters loading and unloading in front of the site.
The resident’s association were also concerned about traffic issues. They said the area was used as a “rat run” by drivers cutting through the Longford estate.
Councillors were told the premises was originally three properties which had been knocked into one. But the proposal was to turn it into two properties – both of which would be takeaways – with two flats above.
Planning officers were happy, however, with parking and other issues and recommended the scheme be approved.
But councillors decided nevertheless to refuse the application after hearing of the local objections.