AMBITIOUS plans to build a fast food restaurant in Shotton have been submitted to Flintshire Council.

The former Shotton Mini Market and I Do bridal shop, on Chester Road West, will be converted into a fish and chip cafe if Shotton businessman Mohammad Ahmad is granted permission.

Hot drinks and ice cream will also be sold and customers will have the option to take their food away.

Mr Ahmad, 35, who also runs ice cream vans from Deeside Creameries, has high hopes for the cafe which he wants to decorate like an American-style diner.

He told the Leader: “There are plenty of places to eat in Shotton but there is nowhere to sit down, especially for the older people.

“By the time people take their fish and chips home they are getting cold and the quality is not very good.

“People will enjoy their meal more if they are sitting down and socialising.

“I have run takeaways in the past and I have lots of experience. This place will be something a little bit different. I’m hoping it will be popular with the people in Shotton.”

But the plans have prompted concern among existing businesses in the town.

Andrew Watkin, owner of the nearby Strands hair salon, has even lodged a complaint on the Flintshire Council website.

He said: “I think it’s a waste of time. There must already be about half a dozen cafes in Shotton and there is a fish and chip shop directly opposite where this one could be. Both could end up going bust if we have another one.

“I have nothing against the applicant, but this is just not necessary in Shotton.”

Kev Jones, co-owner of nearby Judgy’s Cafe, added: “There are a lot of catering businesses in Shotton that are already struggling so I can’t see this one doing very well.”

Cllr Ann Minshull is worried that fast food restaurants are taking over the town.

She told a meeting of Shotton Town Council: “I walked along the high street and counted 11 takeaways and restaurants. We do not need another. I am very concerned about this.”

A decision by Flintshire Council planning officers is expected to be made by mid-March.