BAXENDEN residents believe plans to build a takeaway could be ‘extremely detrimental’ to their village.

In a meeting held at the Victoria pub in Accrington on Monday, residents shared worries that the proposed takeaway at 145 Manchester Road could damage lives in the residential area.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Plans were handed into Hyndburn Council by the owner of Monte Cristo Restaurant in Accrington to convert the Bargain Booze into a Monte Cristo Express.

But residents fear that the arrival of a takeaway could lead to an increase in litter and rodents, as well as causing parking issues.

A resident said: “A number of concerns were raised which the lady, who acted as spokesperson, was unable to answer appropriately.

“Concerns raised were concerning increased parking on Manchester Road which is a major road in and out of the town, increased noise and litter both in the area and in the neighbouring Oak Hill Park, devaluation in neighbouring properties, and potentially vermin in a built-up residential area.

“The general consensus was that opening a takeaway in such an area would be extremely detrimental with no benefits whatsoever.”

Cllr Tony Dobson, who represents the nearby Barnfield ward, felt that not enough information has been made available to residents and is worried they could be ‘jumping to the wrong conclusions’. Cllr Dobson said: “For me I think the takeaway could be a good thing for Baxenden, but I am very disappointed to see that residents were not fully informed about what the changes from a shop to a takeaway would involve.

“I don’t feel the meeting gave enough information to residents and I feel they could be jumping to the wrong conclusions.

“A lot of people have assumed that this takeaway would be a kebab or curry house when it’s nothing of the sort. It’s an Italian restaurant that’s been doing really well in Accrington.

“I would encourage everyone who wants to learn more about what the takeaway actually is and what it plans to bring to Baxenden, to look up the planning proposals on the borough council’s website.” The owner of Monte Cristo was contacted but refused to comment.