Domino's scraps takeaway plan after major backlash

Manningtree is the smallest town in England when it comes to geographical size

People living in England's smallest town are claiming a victory after Domino's scrapped its plans to open a takeaway.

Hundreds of residents objected to the pizza chain taking over a former bank in Manningtree, Essex, and one said it felt like "an April Fools gag".

In letters seen by the BBC, Tendring District Council warned Domino's there had been intense opposition to the proposed High Street shop.

A spokeswoman for the chain said there were "limitations" with its plan.

Rowan Hunter, who runs The Stour Store next to the earmarked building, said: "I think it's a small victory for a town that wants to be independent.

"We want shops here that support each other and local families, so it's a win in that regard."

Rowan Hunter, who would have neighboured Domino's, said the town championed independent businesses

Manningtree is the smallest town in England when it comes to geographical size, at just 19 hectares (47 acres).

Tesco Express is the only big name brand on the High Street and the town has several independent takeaways.

A tidal wave of opposition against Domino's included the Conservative MP for Harwich and North Essex, Sir Bernard Jenkin.

He said the chain would take a significant slice out of Manningtree's "distinct character and charm".

It was an argument that held weight with the local authority, who subsequently told Domino's its plan was "heading towards a refusal".

"I do draw you attention to the strength of local opposition including from Sir Bernard Jenkin MP," council planning officer Alison Pope told a Domino's planner in an email, seen by the BBC.

She said councillors were concerned about the shop's impact on High Street traffic and its heritage.

Domino's wanted to open inside a former Barclays bank that has been empty since June 2023

Sarah Mawkes, who runs The Wholefood Store, also objected to Domino's, claiming it threatened "the identity, values and environmental integrity" of the town.

However, Stephen Ivell, from Lawford, accused those objecting to the plan of being unable to cope with change.

Tendring District Council confirmed the plans, submitted on 8 April, had been withdrawn on Thursday.

The Domino's spokeswoman said: "We have withdrawn our application in Manningtree due to limitations with the property we intended for our store.

"We always seek to make any alterations within planning guidelines and given we are unable to make changes to the property to allow efficient deliveries we have decided to explore other options."