Controversial Telford takeaway scheme recommended for approval

Concern that smells from a proposed takeaway would waft into a Wellington pub’s beer garden can be overcome by conditions say planners.

Developers are planning to build a single-storey side extension at the former NotJUST discount store unit, at Bridge Road and subdivide it into two retail units and a hot food takeaway.

Now planners are recommending the scheme for approval subject to a host of conditions including on controlling noise and odours.

The site is next to The Pheasant Inn and objectors has feared an impact on the pub.

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“The smell and heat from the extraction fan could negatively affect the business of The Pheasant Inn’s beer garden,” wrote one objector.

“The Pheasant is one of the jewels in Wellington’s crown and brings people into town.”

Environmental protection officials ran the rule over the proposals and concluded there remains “potential for noise, odour, fumes and general disturbance”.

Officials stated that silencers, acoustic insulation and anti-vibration mountings are required to reduce the impact to an acceptable level.

Similarly potential odour issues need to be dealt with, they added.

“Suitable extraction, filtration and odour abatement measures therefore remain necessary to minimise noise, odour, fumes and emissions and to protect the amenity of nearby residential occupiers and neighbouring premises,” planners wrote.

Equipment will need to be installed before the site is used and further tests carried out when it begins operation.

Officials concluded that they are “content that the proposed scheme will not lead to significantly detrimental harm upon the amenity of neighbouring sites and uses.”

Some 38 objections were received to the proposal, including from Wellington Town Council, and borough councillor Paul Davis.

Both the town council and Councillor Davis used the call in procedure to get the planning committee to consider the issues in public.

The biggest cause of concern was over the possible relocation of the Pepe’s takeaway from its current premises at 2, Bridge Road. A barber shop and a meat retail unit are also in the proposal.

Council officers consider that the takeaway would not result in an over proliferation of similar uses nor undermine the retail function or vitality of Wellington Town Centre.

They added: “Officers are satisfied that the site is large enough to accommodate the proposed use, without leading to an over-development and an unacceptable intensification of the use of the application site.”

Indeed they add that the proposal would result in an “enhancement of the application site”.

Telford & Wrekin Council’s planning committee will meet in public on Wednesday, July 22, to make the decision. The meeting will be held at the council chamber at Southwater One, starting at 6pm.

You can find out more about planning applications and planned roadworks where you live by visiting publicnoticeportal.uk/shropshire-star