News / Lawrence Weston
Bristol neighbourhood turning into ‘fast-food wasteland’
Plans for yet another takeaway will turn a north Bristol high street into a “fast-food wasteland”, neighbours fear.
The proposed outlet on Ridingleaze in Lawrence Weston – understood to be a fish and chip shop – was submitted to the city council less than three weeks ago but has already prompted dozens of objections.
There are five existing takeaways at the strip of shops, including a chippy, and residents are worried that yet another will leave the area “oversaturated” with similar establishments that could force some to close, along with concerns about smells, litter and unhealthy eating.
is needed now More than ever
Locals are pleading with the local authority’s planning department to reject the application to change the use of the former Kim’s Domestic Appliances store and have suggested other uses that will benefit the community, such as a grocers, library or butchers.
One of the objectors wrote: “As a resident of Lawrence Weston of 50 years I feel that we really don’t need any more takeaway or food shops.
“This is an absolutely disgraceful thing to suggest. It would make more sense to have a shop as a library.”
Another said: “There are already five fast-food places on Ridingleaze with each vying for the limited custom available and make enough to cover rents and business rates.
“Of these five there is a fish and chip shop that has served the area for many years – the area does not need another.
“If the application is approved, Ridingleaze is in danger of becoming a fast-food wasteland.”
One resident wrote: “The street is oversaturated, and introducing another food business here will not create new demand, but divide it further.”
Another resident echoed similar concerns that it would negatively impact nearby businesses.
The owner of a neighbouring takeaway said in their objection: “The proposed development offers no new benefit to the area, which is already well-served in terms of takeaway options.
“Rather, it threatens to destabilise the local economy and disrupt the delicate balance we have managed to maintain.
“The increased competition could lead to business closures, resulting in vacant units, urban decay, and loss of community services.”
No date has yet been set for the application to be decided.
Main photo: Local Democracy Reporting Service
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