Shop's take-away plans withdrawn after dozens oppose

Objections were raised over the plans to convert the Old Town store partly into a take-away

A plan put forward by a convenience store to double-up as a hot food take-away has been withdrawn after objections by local residents.

The owners of the Premier Store at Celcus Grove in Old Town, Swindon, hoped to run the take-away between 10:00 and 02:00, but the hours were revised to end at 23:00 after the original time caused some disquiet.

A total of 51 public comments were received regarding the plans, with the majority opposing them.

South Swindon Parish Council also voiced concerns around noise pollution and a high risk of anti-social behaviour.

'Nightmare for residents'

Before being withdrawn, the plans showed that a small preparation and cooking area would be created in a new room at the front of the shop, with customers able to order and collect their food from an access hatch.

One objection from a member of public said: “To have a fast-food take-away at the Premier shop would be a nightmare for residents.

"We already have problems with teenagers/young people buying vapes from there, sitting smoking by bin stores and leaving their rubbish behind, breaking doors, graffiti and so on.

“We do not need to court any more of this by having a fast-food take-away opened until 2am. The shop is in the middle of a residential area we do not want to have the extra noise with cars etc that this would cause."

Another said: “I strongly object to the proposal. The plans indicate a serving hatch so customers would be waiting and chatting just a few feet from bedroom windows. Others too will be eating in cars, possibly with music playing."