Councillors in Rhyl have rejected plans to convert a vacant hairdressing salon into a fried chicken takeaway, citing fears over obesity and the impact on children's health. The decision came despite planning officers recommending approval for the scheme, which aimed to bring an empty unit back into use.
Application Details and Objections
The application, submitted by Ernest Thananjcheliyan, sought to change the use of the former Helen's hairdressers at 45 Trellewelyn Road into a hot food takeaway selling fried chicken, fries, rice, and salads. The proposed business would have operated daily from 11am to 11pm. However, the plans faced strong opposition from Rhyl Town Council, local residents, and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.
The health board raised concerns about the potential negative impact of another takeaway on the health and wellbeing of the town's population. Residents also highlighted issues with traffic, parking, litter, noise, odours, light pollution, and anti-social behaviour.
Council Debate
During the Denbighshire County Council planning committee meeting, Cllr Michelle Blakeley-Walker spoke against the application, saying she was representing residents' concerns. She emphasised the need to consider young children and the Wellbeing Act for future generations, stating: "We need to take into consideration our young children, the Wellbeing Act going forward for future generations in conjunction with health and wellbeing. That is a major concern with obesity and young people."
Cllr Alan James noted that parking in the area was a "nightmare" because people "wouldn't walk" and were "driving everywhere." He also warned about litter problems, saying: "The kids throw the litter on the floor." However, he acknowledged the benefits of bringing the empty unit back into use, describing it as "very tatty" and noting that "the windows have not been cleaned since it was vacated a couple of years ago."
Vote and Outcome
Cllr Jon Harland proposed approving the application, seconded by Cllr James, but the motion was defeated by a vote of 10 against and four in favour. The committee then agreed to refuse planning permission, citing the health board's concerns about health and wellbeing linked to the sale of fast food. The unit, which has been empty for over two years, will remain vacant for now.
