Plans for new Indian takeaway in Wooler face dozens of objections

A petition opposing a proposed Indian takeaway restaurant in Wooler has been lodged.
The site of a proposed Indian takeaway in Wooler.The site of a proposed Indian takeaway in Wooler.
The site of a proposed Indian takeaway in Wooler.

The 63-signature petition objecting to a change of use application has been submitted to Northumberland County Council.

Mehraj Musabbir from Fenham in Newcastle is seeking change of use permission for a property at 79 High Street, currently an empty shop unit.

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Petition creators John Driver and Judy Farag, who live next door, state: “With 63 signatures on this petition, I do feel that local residents have made a definitive statement to object to this application.”

Proposed opening hours are from 4pm to 11pm daily.

The applicant has indicated that if permission is granted, an application for a flue will be made later.

The public health protection department at Northumberland County Council has objected on the grounds of potential noise and odour, citing insufficient information on the application. The highways department has raised no objections.

Wooler Parish Council has objected, although it is not a statutory consultee for change of use applications. It has raised noise, smell and traffic concerns.

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“We believe they are the only legitimate reasons for objection,” said Coun Angus Murray at Monday night’s meeting.

Coun Mark Mather, chairman, added: “We will send a letter to county council planning to make sure any changes to a property on the High Street takes these issues into account.”

However, he also acknowledged that some people would welcome the return of an Indian takeaway in the town which would also support the local economy.