Chadsmoor takeaway plans approved
An empty shop unit can be turned into a takeaway after councillors gave plans the go-ahead – despite concerns about road safety and parking.
The premises in Cannock Road, Chadsmoor, was previously a domestic appliance repair workshop.
Cannock Chase Council’s planning committee considered the change of use plans at a meeting last month, but deferred its decision due to issues with the proposed car park.
On Wednesday a revised car park design, including a larger turning area for vehicles, was presented to the committee.
Ward councillor Christine Mitchell told the committee concerns about car parking and traffic remained however.
She has previously said the shop is located on the main route between Cannock and Hednesford at a busy island with five main roads leading into it.
She said: “It’s going to make traffic in the area absolutely dreadful – and it’s bad enough as it is.”
Jim Malkin, speaking in support of the plans, said the applicant had worked with the council to resolve the issues raised at the previous meeting.
He added: “The highways authority raised no objections and would have consulted accident data.”
Nine members voted in favour of the application – but four voted against and there was one abstention.
Councillor Alan Dudson, who called for the application to be approved, said: “I find it very difficult to object to it. If it goes to appeal we wouldn’t stand a chance.”
Councillor Alan Pearson, who wanted the committee to refuse permission, said: “We have five ways in and out as it is – this will make it six ways and there will definitely be accidents if this goes forward.”
He also raised concerns about the number of takeaways already in the area.
But planning officer Richard Sunter said the council did not have any policies restricting the number of takeaways that could be used to warrant refusal of the application.
