Gloucester kebab shop given green light by councillors

Plans to convert a former hair salon into a kebab shop have been given the go-ahead.

Mahmut Karasan will soon turn Headline Hair salon, next to the Co-op shop in Hillview Road, Hucclecote, Gloucester, into a food takeaway business.

The change of use was approved by Gloucester City Council on 6 February despite concerns over noise and smell.

The shop is expected to open from 17:00 to 23:00 from Monday to Saturday as well as on Sundays and bank holidays.

The salon closed in 2021, Mr Kasaran has since purchased the property.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, three voted against the proposals, with some fearing the addition of a kebab shop near to a pub "which attracts individuals with less-than-ideal behaviours" would exacerbate the problem.

They also said the prospect of intoxicated and antisocial people congregating near houses at late hours is deeply concerning.

However, a person speaking in favour of the proposals said they understood "concerns raised" by some neighbours but the "council has been rigorous in addressing these issues" and the "application aligns with policies."

They said: "We hope to foster positive relationships within the community," they added.

However, Councillor David Brown said when the nearby pizza takeaway Papa Johns' applied for permission it was refused by the committee although later granted on appeal.

He said the application for the kebab shop is identical and is close to homes.

He said: "The cumulative impact now is greater. What has changed in planning law since?"

Officers explained the latest change was the adoption of the city council plan. They said the application abides by the new policies.

Councillor Alastair Chambers suggested a condition to check the ventilation ducts are installed to the required specification, which was supported by the planning committee.

The committee voted to approve the scheme by seven votes in favour and three against.

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