Bristol: New takeaways near city's schools could be banned

The ban would apply to new takeaways proposed near schools or youth clubs

The public are to be consulted on plans that could ban new takeaways near schools or youth clubs in Bristol.

The city council has approved a draft Local Plan that would also stop three or more takeaways from opening next door to each other.

City Hall chiefs are concerned takeaways are contributing to rising levels of obesity.

At a full meeting on Tuesday, councillors agreed for the plan to proceed to a six-week consultation.

Under the proposal, new applications for takeaways located within about a five-minute walking distance, or about 400m, (1300ft) of a school or youth club, will not be granted permission.

The council says there are "clear and evidenced links" between takeaways and fast food and obesity.

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The proposed ban forms one part of Bristol City Council's draft new Local Plan, which sets out how and where new developments should be built up until 2040 - including 35,000 new homes by that year.

The draft Local Plan proposes a ban on three or more takeaways opening next door to each other

The draft plan states: "Takeaways are a well-established feature of Bristol's town, district and local centres, which offer services to customers and provide employment opportunities.

'Harmful to health'

"However, when they are located close to schools, youth facilities and other locations where young people gather, takeaway uses have the potential to influence behaviour which is harmful to health and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.

"Controlling the development of takeaways within walking distances of places where young people gather will limit children's exposure to the influences on making less healthy food choices."

Councillors voted by 55 to four to approve the draft Local Plan, with four abstentions.

It will now proceed to a full public consultation lasting a minimum of six weeks, beginning in November.

Following this period, the plan will be submitted to the secretary of state for independent examination.