Domino's launches appeal after takeaway refused

Sheringham residents and the town council opposed the opening of a Domino's, and argued there were already nearly 40 food firms in the area

A pizza chain lodged an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate after a council blocked its plans to open a branch in a seaside town.

Domino's hoped to open a takeaway shop in a former department store in Church Street, Sheringham.

However, councillors on North Norfolk Council's planning committee rejected the application and said it would lead to an overconcentration of hot food takeaways.

The chain hoped the inspectorate, which presides over planning disputes, would find in its favour by citing "unjustified reasons for refusal".

The pizza chain disagreed with the reason given for refusal

An agent for Domino's also said the council had "misinterpreted planning guidance" in its appeal against the decision.

The American multinational business said more chains opening could not be a reason for an application to be refused.

Councillors discussing the application were concerned that the takeaway would harm the vitality of the high street, due to the loss of a shop, and disturb people living in flats above, the Local Democracy Reporting Service reported.

Townsfolk had objected and claimed they did not want chain restaurants opening up in the seaside destination over fears it could harm smaller local businesses.

Sheringham Town Council is also against the proposal, and argued there were already nearly 40 food firms operating in the town.

The Planning Inspectorate will look at the evidence and make a decision later this year.