Plans to convert a vacant butcher shop into a fish and chip takeaway could be refused after officials raise issues with parking.

The application to turn the former Thomas Smith & Son Butchers on Glasgow Road into an independent chippy may be refused by councillors at a planning meeting on December 11.

West Dunbartonshire Council Road Service has said that the store would be more frequently used than before with its change of use and that hot food takeaways require five off-street parking spaces, three more than previously required.

The lack of spaces raises concerns as customers are likely to use the nearest street provision which the Road Service believes will increase safety concerns as it is situated near a controlled crossing and white zig-zag lines.

The report reads: "The proposal fails to provide the required level of off-street parking, which has the potential to result in additional on-street parking demand, obstructive parking and congestion within what is a heavily parked area.

"This has the potential to adversely impact upon road and pedestrian safety and the Council's Roads Service recommends that the application be refused for this reason."

The council consulted Police Scotland who have echoed the concerns.

The applicant has noted that there would be 'no more or less' traffic than the existing butchers and that the area is marked by signs and drivers who don't adhere to them are a police matter not a planning matter.


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Of the 24 local residents who submitted a representation, 17 supported the application and 7 objected.

Those who supported the plans say it would provide more dining options, bring in more footfall, including tourists, and support local businesses including jobs.

Opposers have flagged issues such as the lack of parking, concerns over late operating hours and that Dumbarton already has a number of chip shops.

A decision on the application is set to be made next week.