CONTROVERSIAL plans to open a new chip shop inside a convenience store are set to be approved, despite concerns over road safety and parking.

Mr Anabarasan applied for planning permission from Colchester Council to open the new fish and chip takeaway inside part of Ash's Convenience Express, in Colchester Road, West Bergholt.

The application requested permission to change the shopfront of the premises as well as install a new extractor hood, fan and external cold rooms.

Plans are set to be approved at a meeting of Colchester Council's planning committee on Thursday.

The application was called-in by Conservative ward councillors Dennis Willets and Lewis Barber.

However, officers have recommended the plans be approved.

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The report states: "The proposal would provide economic and social benefits, as the proposed would result in a new business in West Bergholt and provide employment opportunities for three full time and two part time staff.

"It is also considered that the proposed would be in a sustainable location and could serve a population that would be able to access the facility by foot and bicycle.

"The application has resulted in a number of objections.

"It is acknowledged that there would be some impact on neighbouring amenity however it has been judged that these impacts could be suitably controlled by planning conditions which would ensure a satisfactory level of amenity is retained.

"Both the highways authority and environmental protection have been consulted and raise no objection to the proposal. As the experts in their fields their comments hold significant weight.

"It is considered that the positive economic and social impacts are sufficient to outweigh any concerns identified and consequently approval is recommended."

A total of 71 objections were received, whilst eight residents spoke out in support of the plans.

Councillors will vote on the proposals at the meeting on Thursday.