Barnsley Council updates takeaway rules to restrict new restaurants near schools
Under the changes, planning permission is likely to be refused for new takeaways within walking distance of schools
Barnsley Council has updated its planning guidance on hot food takeaways, reinforcing restrictions on new outlets opening near schools and areas where young people gather.
The revised guidance, approved at a full council meeting on March 26, does not introduce new planning policies but updates existing rules in line with national guidance and the latest public health data.
Under the changes, planning permission is likely to be refused for new takeaways within walking distance of schools, unless they are located in designated town centres.
The council will also take a firmer approach to areas with a high number of takeaways, with applications likely to be rejected if they would lead to clustering or harm the character of a shopping area.
Other measures remain in place to limit the impact on nearby residents, including controls on noise, cooking smells and late-night opening hours. Takeaways are also unlikely to be approved where they share a wall with a home.
Council officers said the updated guidance reflects growing concerns around obesity and unhealthy weight, particularly among children and young people in the borough.
Councillor Alex Burnett told the meeting: “We have a duty in this chamber to do what we can to make our residents lives better, to live happier, healthier and longer lives. This policy will go a small way to helping us achieve that. Not allowing hot food takeaways within 800 meters of schools means that the temptation to make the wrong choice at break times and after schools is reduced.”
Cllr Burnett, who is also an NHS consultant oncologist, added: “Over two thirds of Barnsley residents are overweight or obese, as well as a sadly, large proportion of our children. Obesity comes with a range of negative health outcomes that I see every day at work, from arthritis to heart disease to cancer. ”
The changes follow updates to national planning policy, which place greater emphasis on restricting takeaways near schools and tackling health inequalities through the planning system.
The documents will now be used by planning officers when considering future takeaway applications.