Takeaway ban plan to get nod
EXCLUSION ZONE NEAR SCHOOLS TO BE INCLUDED
Managing the prevalence of fast food outlets is an important factor in promoting healthier living Tracey Dixon
PLANS to introduce exclusion zones around schools and a ban on takeaway openings in South Tyneside were set to be given the go-ahead yesterday.
South Tyneside Council had outlined plans to ban takeaway openings in wards where obesity levels for Year 6 pupils is more than 10%, which is currently the case for the entire borough.
The proposals sought to refuse applications for openings within 400m of a secondary school to restrict children’s access to unhealthy lunch or hometime options.
Currently, there are 139 ‘A5’ use units which include pizza shops, fish and chip shops, kebab shops and Chinese and Indian takeaways - in the borough, with many in areas of higher deprivation.
The planning guidance outlined in a supplementary planning document hwas recommended for approval at the authority’s cabinet meeting yesterday.
Councillor Tracey Dixon, lead member for independence and wellbeing, said: “The number of takeaways in South Tyneside has increased by 18% since 2014.
“This trend is contributing to creating an environment where unhealthy food options are widely available and is at odds with our fight against obesity and health inequalities.
“Health is one of our key priorities and managing the prevalence of fast food outlets is an important factor in promoting healthier living and reducing the number of overweight or obese residents.”
Similar proposals have been adopted in recent years by both Gateshead Council and Newcastle City Council.
If approved, “buffer” zones of 400m would be established around eight schools in the South Tyneside area. The new measures would also include further consideration for neighbouring residents and amenities on future takeaway applications.
In South Tyneside, 71.3% of adults are identified as having excess weight, which is higher than the national average.
Members of the public were asked for their views on the proposed guidance during a sixweek consultation period earlier this year.
Coun Dixon added: “The adoption of this guidance into a supplementary planning document would help in our fight against unhealthy lifestyles and health inequalities.”