6:00pm Thursday 17th April 2008
By Tristan Kirk
A CONTROVERSIAL application to convert a Pinner shop into a restaurant has been passed at the third time of asking.
The owners of the property in Whittington Way, which used to be an electrical and building supplies shop, want to convert it into a restaurant.
Two previous applications have been rejected because of problems with ventilation, disabled access, and rubbish storage facilities.
But councillors passed a third application at a meeting last night, despite objections from residents.
One neighbour, Brent Williams, wrote to complain, saying a new restaurant is not needed in the area, and would cause litter and parking problems.
He wrote: "I have spoken to some of the local residents as well as businesses in person, and to be quite honest with you they are against the plans as much as I am."
Some residents had feared the premises would become a takeaway, pointing out there are already three similar takeaways in nearby Cannon Lane.
Marie Adams, who lives above the property, said: "I do not understand why another fast food outlet is necessary in this area.
"The thought of a fast food outlet with the smell and noise from customers late at night is frightening."
But councillors agreed the application is for a restaurant, with four table areas, and cannot be used as a takeaway.
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