Planning Permission Granted for a Hot Food Takeaway in Westminster, London
We are pleased to have secured planning permission for the change of use of a ground floor unit near Charing Cross, in the City of Westminster to a Sui Generis hot food takeaway, with associated alterations to the shop front.
The Proposed Hot Food Takeaway
Our client operates a vegan plant-based fast-food takeaway, that specialises in middle-eastern food. Their first unit opened in Manchester in 2012, and they have since opened further units in other parts of Manchester, Liverpool and London. This new unit allows our client to expand across the capital in an important tourist and commercial area.
The Existing Unit
The application site was last within a Sui Generis betting shop planning use.
Planning Policy for Takeaway Uses in Westminster
Westminster has restrictive planning policies that seek to avoid an over-concentration of takeaway uses, especially where they are located close to residential dwellings or might affect the vitality and character of an area.
The proposed scheme is different to most takeaways as the hot food takeaway use is sought to facilitate a vegan friendly, plant-based takeaway, that diversifies the healthy food options available within this area, and support its role as a transport node and hub.
Initially the Council were resistant to a takeaway at this location, but following in depth discussions with the planning officer and the Council’s environmental health team, we were able to demonstrate that the proposed use would not have a detrimental affect upon the character of the area or nearby residential amenity.
External Alterations to the Takeaway
The proposed scheme also included alterations, including:
Remove existing shopfront and installation of an aluminium frame, with toughened clear glass side panels and doors.
The steel cladding will be painted to match the sign.
Installation of a new air recirculation internal ventilation system.
The only noise generating plant associated with the proposal is the fan with the high-level extract duct which is routed internally. The application was supported by the technical specification for this unit.
We are pleased that the council supported the proposed changes and recognised the visual benefits they would bring.
Do you require a Change of Use Planning Permission?
At A D P, we provide both planning design and design advice and professional services for a variety of projects, including commercial schemes, and change of use planning applications. If you require advice for your project, please contact us at mail@adpltd.co.uk or use the form below.
