New ban to stop new takeaways opening near schools or youth clubs
The idea forms part of Bristol City Council's new 'Local Plan', which will be voted on later this month
A new ban will stop new takeaways from opening in Bristol near schools or youth clubs in a bid to fight obesity. The ban will also stop three or more takeaways from opening next door to each other, with fears the food served is often unhealthy and high in sugar, salt and fat.
New plans for takeaways located within about a five-minute walking distance, or 400 metres, will not be granted permission, under a new policy included in a major new housing blueprint. City Hall chiefs are concerned that takeaways are contributing to rising levels of obesity.
Writing on X, formerly Twitter, Labour Councillor Ellie King, cabinet member for public health, said: “The health impacts of takeaways concentrated in clusters or near schools or youth facilities will be addressed to help support healthier choices.”
The new ban forms one part of Bristol City Council’s draft new Local Plan, which sets out how and where new developments should be built up until 2040. Next week on October 31 councillors will vote on approving the draft, ahead of an upcoming public consultation.
The draft new Local Plan states: “Takeaways are a well-established feature of Bristol’s town, district and local centres which offer services to customers and provide employment opportunities. However, when they are located close to schools, youth facilities and other locations where young people gather, takeaway uses have the potential to influence behaviour which is harmful to health and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.
“There are clear and evidenced links between takeaways and fast food and obesity among all age groups. Controlling the development of takeaways within walking distances of places where young people gather will limit children’s exposure to the influences on making less healthy food choices.”