Objections to extended hours at takeaway

Best Kebab, on the upper stretch of Ecclesall Road at Banner Cross, is currently permitted under planning rules to open until 11.30pm Monday to Saturday and 11pm on Sundays and bank holidays.

However, its owners have submitted a licensing application to Sheffield Council for the extended opening hours, and a decision on that application is set to be made at a licensing board meeting nextTuesday.

Phil Abbott, Sheffield Council's head of planning, has criticised the plans.

He said: "I have concerns about noise nuisance associated with the late night opening to 1.30am and 3.30am on Fridays, Saturdays and pre-bank holidays.

"This is due to the close proximity of residential properties, in particular flats above the shop units in this parade and on the opposite side of Ecclesall Road.

"Patrons would potentially cause noise whilst arriving at the site, whilst waiting for orders, whilst consuming food immediately outside the premises and whilst departing to respective residences.

"Some customers would also visit the takeaway by car and this would create some substantial noise."

At the same meeting, licensing board members will also consider an application from The Belfry pub in Eckington Road, Beighton, to alter its licence and gain permission to open an outdoor drinking area.

Owner Punch Taverns has also asked for permission for customers to take glasses, rather than plastic cups, outside.

Sheffield Council environmental protection officer Richard McDonald has objected to the application, saying: "I am concerned that residents in close proximity will potentially be affected by excessive noise disturbance by patrons outside the premises."