PLANS to turn an empty shop in Wrexham into a takeaway have been rejected over concerns that children at a nearby school could order in fast food.

Councillors met on Monday (April 12) to consider an application to convert the former Auto Parts store in Rhosddu.

The property on Holyrood Crescent is situated approximately 300 metres in walking distance from Rhosddu Primary School.

Wrexham Council planning guidance states that takeaways should not be located within 400 metres of a school.

Planning officers had recommended the proposals for approval depite the guidelines, arguing that although the fast food joint would be open at lunchtime, primary-age children are unable to leave the school grounds.

However, community leaders turned down permission after highlighting that pupils could still use online ordering apps to get food delivered to them.

Speaking at the virtual meeting, Erddig councillor Paul Roberts said: “As far as I’m aware, the application site actually borders on to the school field.

“You say that children won’t be going out of the school, but technically they could order a bite to eat if that was feasible and they could be passed it over the fence.

“I’m concerned about the traffic situation with people coming in and going out.

“I’m looking at the parking, the traffic and the fact that from the opening hours, children or parents could decide to book a burger at the school gates if they so desire .”

A report to the committee showed that taking the normal route to the school by road would place it 600 metres from the takeaway and therefore outside the restriction area.

However, there is a short cut at the back of the school through a cul-de-sac which reduces the walking distance by half.

Planning officer David Williams told the committee that takeaway applications could be accepted near schools provided that opening hours are restricted immediately before and after the start of the school day.

Issues were also raised regarding the impact on traffic and parking, with limited spaces available outside the row of shops.

Local councillor David I Bithell said: “By virtue of its close proximity to residential properties, the proposed change of use of the building would likely have a significant detrimental impact on the residents of those properties.

“Also, the proposed development would cause a significant increase in traffic generation and does not make adequate provision for the parking of vehicles within the application sites.”

Criticising the officer directly for recommending approval, he added: “David Williams does not to have to live near to takeaway food premises.

“He does not have to put up with the raft of problems that this proposed development will bring with this for the local residents.”

Cllr Bithell was then interrupted and warned over the personal attack by committee chair Mike Morris.

In response to the concerns, Mr Williams said the increasing use of online food delivery apps meant customers were less likely to drive to the takeaway, reducing the demand on parking.

But the majority of councillors voted to refuse the application over the impact on traffic, lack of parking spaces and the outlet’s proximity to the school.