Local people are being asked to share their views on Sandwell Council's hot food takeaway planning policies, to bring them up to date, taking into account the increase in takeaway premises. The consultation takes place between February 1st and March 11th, in an extension to the original consultation from November/December. If you took part in the previous consultation, your views will still be taken into consideration, unless you wish to make additional comments, then your views are logged.

Take part in the consultation at: www.sandwell.gov.uk/takeawayconsultation

The plan highlights the problems of obesity in the borough, the need to restrict hot-food takeaways around schools and colleges and the clustering of establishments in town centres and local shopping centres.

Under the main changes suggested in the planning document is a move to alter the percentage of A5 premises – such as fried chicken, fish and chip, kebab and pizza - within a retail centre.

The planning document has also been amended in line with up-to-date local and national policies.

Councillor Paul Moore, cabinet member with responsibility for planning, said: “This consultation is important because takeaway food is an important thing in many people’s minds and in the local economy.

“So the council is anxious to consult with people who use the takeaways, run them or live near them.

“Most takeways provide a good service to customers but sometimes they can cause problems in their local environment and the council is anxious to have a firm policy which can be respected by everyone involved."

Views can be sent in via email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., online at www.sandwell.gov.uk/takeawayconsultation, in person at the planning reception at Sandwell Council House in Freeth Street, Oldbury, or by post to strategic planning at Sandwell House House Oldbury B69 3DE