A CONTROVERSIAL plan to turn an empty Winchester shop into a fish-and-chip takeaway has been given the go-ahead.
Neighbours have submitted a 23-name petition but planners gave permission for 81 St Cross Road to be turned into a chippy.
Local residents had bombarded the council with objection letters saying the takeaway would attract more noise, traffic, pollution, litter and loutish late-night behaviour to the area.
They are worried about trade being taken away from the nearby Bell Inn and the possibility of neon signs outside the chippy. The city council's planning committee echoed some of residents' concerns but were told neon signs and late-night opening were not included in the application.
Councillor Patrick Davies said: "This building is hardly a thing of beauty. A modern but careful reorganisation of the front could improve it dramatically."
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