Disorder fears are bad taste for takeaway

PLANS to turn a garage in Gilmerton into a hot food takeaway are set to be rejected, over concerns it could become a hotspot for antisocial behaviour in the area.

The single-storey garage on Moredun Park Street would become a takeaway that would open from 11am until 8pm during the week and 11am-9pm at the weekend under the proposals.

The closing time is much earlier than originally proposed after concerns from residents about the potential for youth disorder.

Planning officials initially proposed that the scheme gets the go-ahead because the proposed opening hours are in line with other retail in the area.

But councillors have visited the premises and decided they are minded to refuse the proposal.

John Bury, head of planning at the city council, suggested reasons for rejection could include that it would be likely to lead to "an unacceptable increase in noise, disturbance, on-street activity or antisocial behaviour". He also said that the use of the premises would be "inappropriate" in the area.

Councillors will make a final decision on Wednesday.