‘For cod’s sake! Anger over bid to open chippy near Cathedral

A bid to open a chip shop yards from Canterbury Cathedral’s iconic entrance has sparked fears tourists will be hit with the waft of deep-fried fish.

Popular Thanet business Seafarer wants to launch three doors down from the historic landmark’s imposing Christchurch Gate.

But opponents claim the “odour” of the classic British takeaway will not leave a “good lasting impression” on visitors to the city.

One objector, local resident Robert Wilson, says: “It would be impossible to eliminate the smell of fish entirely.

“There are several fish and chip shops in Canterbury where the smell of fish pervades their location.

“One wonders about the logic in adding another takeaway to an already crowded market, particularly right next door to the Cathedral.”

In another objection submitted to the city council, Angela Whitfield writes: “This outlet would be located right next to one of the most iconic features of Canterbury, namely the Cathedral gate, which is a key component of visitor photographic evidence of their trip.

“However, the cooking odours wafting in the area would not leave a good lasting impression and would not be in keeping with the neighbourhood.”

Seafarer, which already runs a chippy in Broadstairs, is confident the installation of an extraction system will reduce any smells released from the shop.

The Grade Ii-listed building was previously home to Warrens Bakery, which shut down just a year after opening in 2019.

In its planning application, Seafarer claims the chip shop will not have a negative impact on the city.

“Our proposal is to leave the building untouched save for some small redecoration works to the shop front, which will include redecoration for branding purposes and painted signage,” it reads.

“It is anticipated that the extraction system installed will ensure no disturbance, nuisance, or loss of amenity to nearby premises as a result of any odour or noise.

“Internally, there will be the installation of cooking equipment and preparation/ washing areas, but all these items will be subtle in nature and easily reversible.”

The proposed opening hours for the shop are from 11am until 11pm every day.

Four members of staff will be employed, and there will be four dining tables at the rear of the unit for customers to enjoy their meals.

Canterbury Cathedral has not made any official representations to the council about the application, and declined to comment when approached by the Gazette.

‘It would be impossible to eliminate the smell of fish entirely’

The iconic Christchurch Gate, which can be seen, right, covered in scaffolding three doors down from the proposed chip shop