Plans to turn a retail unit into a restaurant and takeaway have been rejected because levels of childhood obesity in the area are too high.

The proposals aimed to transform Baba Phones shop on Queens Road in Hastings into a restaurant and takeaway which would have created five jobs.

The East Sussex County Council public health team objected to the application, citing the higher-than-average rates of childhood obesity in Castle ward as well as the over-concentration of hot food takeaways in the area.

The takeaway that has been denied permission was planned on Queens Road (Image: Google Maps)

The East Sussex County Council public health team said: “The proposal would exacerbate health concerns and obesity levels in the local population by adding to over-proliferation and therefore exacerbating obesity levels and health inequalities.

“There are higher than national levels of obesity for Reception and Year 6 children in Castle ward.”

The applicant claimed the restaurant would contribute positively to the diversity and economic growth of the area.

As well its own takeaway service, the business was also set to rely on app-based delivery services.

The restaurant was to operate from 10am to 11pm, seven days a week.

The East Sussex County Council public health team said: “It is acknowledged that obesity levels are worsening and are likely to worsen over time which is why a preventative approach to HFT is needed and why trends around obesity need to be monitored and acknowledged as part of ‘Planning for Health’.”

Sussex Police had shared some concerns about the impact of hot food collections, noise from extraction vents, and proposed opening hours.

Police advised the applicant to ensure all operations were managed in a way that would not unduly disturb the surrounding local community.

The council’s decision tallies with national and local planning guidance, which advises that authorities should take health implications into account when considering hot food takeaway planning applications.