Swindon takeaway plans refused over odour concerns

The developer said the plans would bolster the economy in the area

A council has rejected proposals for a takeaway after residents said they were worried about smells from the property.

Swindon Borough Council refused the proposal to convert the former Cobra Leathers clothing shop on Whitehouse Road into a hot food takeaway.

Residents also raised concerns over parking and that rubbish disposal may attract "unwanted pests".

Developer Shahab Deen said the plans would "support the ongoing economic viability of the area".

He added: "The business would create two full-time jobs. The proposals would increase footfall within this area and support the mixed uses without detriment to neighbouring uses."

The Cobra Leather shop on Whitehouse Road has been closed since 2021

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) the tailoring shop has been closed since 2021.

Residents said there was already not enough parking in the area and said they would install barriers outside their shop to prevent unauthorised use.

One resident added: "Any cars visiting yet another takeaway will add to this chaos and become extremely dangerous.

"The alley at the back of our property [on Whitehouse Road] is frequented by drug users for supply and use, also people drinking.

"We are worried people will gather in the alley and make noise and leave rubbish, adding to a problem that we have no control over."

Mr Deen said: "There is unrestricted on-street parking in the surrounding streets which would allow for safe parking for customers collecting orders."

Nevertheless, council planners did not agree.

The refusal report said: "The application does not include proposals for kitchen ventilation and control of odours, which have the potential to impact on the character of the area, as well as upon neighbouring amenities in terms of noise and odour.

"As such the applications fails to address impacts upon neighbouring uses and amenities and the character of the area."

The report added the plans did "not make adequate provision" for parking and an influx of vehicles in the area could lead to an "obstruction of the public highway with consequent risk of hazard to all users".

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