Public consultation to follow after approval of policy to curb fast food outlets near schools and on high streets
Bury Council has announced plans to limit the number and location of hot food takeaways across the borough, citing health concerns and growing pressure on town centre infrastructure.
The proposal, backed by councillors earlier this week, follows national efforts to tackle obesity, including a Government ban on junk food advertising before 9pm. A six-week public consultation will now be launched, with full details expected shortly.
Council leader Eamonn O’Brien said the move was driven by residents' complaints about the over-saturation of takeaways, particularly near schools and along high streets.
“In 2020, Bury had 127 takeaways per 100,000 residents. That figure now stands at 165.7, placing us in the top 20 local authority areas in the UK for takeaway density,” he said.
“This isn’t just about aesthetics. Too many takeaways can increase traffic disruption, affect nearby housing, and reduce the diversity of businesses in our centres.”
Council data suggests the rise in takeaway outlets has coincided with an increase in childhood obesity in some of Bury’s most deprived neighbourhoods. In several areas, up to a quarter of children are classified as overweight or obese.
Cllr O’Brien said the evidence pointed to a strong correlation between the concentration of hot food takeaways and unhealthy weight outcomes, especially in low income communities.
The proposed planning reforms would aim to refuse applications for new takeaways within 400 metres of schools and introduce rules to prevent clusters of fast food outlets dominating high street frontages.
“We understand people have freedom of choice,” said Cllr O’Brien. “But we’re trying to strike a balance that supports local businesses while promoting healthier neighbourhoods.”
The council said its goal is not to penalise small food outlets, but to ensure town centres and residential areas are not negatively affected by an over-concentration of similar businesses.
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