TRADERS have attacked a proposal demanding Redbridge Council bans fast food outlets from opening near schools in Wanstead and Woodford.
Councillors will discuss a motion by opposition Labour councillor Barbara White next week which calls on the authority to follow in the footsteps of neighbouring borough Waltham Forest and restrict any new takeaways from trading within 400 metres of schools, parks and youth centres.
The move is designed to combat the growing problem of childhood obesity.
Figures released in April by NHS Redbridge revealed that an estimated 11.4 per cent of children in the borough are obese – far above the national average of 9.4 per cent.
But traders have reacted with anger to the idea.
Dogan Ekim, manager of Kebabland in South Woodford High Road, said: “I don't think it's a good thing and it won't stop children eating at takeaways. Instead all you have to do is control children better, not ban the shops.”
Domino's Pizza chain, which fought against the ban introduced in Waltham Forest in 2009, has also criticised the proposal.
Spokeswoman Georgina Wald said: “There are numerous places near schools where children can get access to food such as corner shops and supermarkets.
“We feel there are better ways to promote a healthy lifestyle than to target a very small proportion of the food industry.”
Anthony Tagliamonti, who runs the chain's branch in Snakes Lane East, Woodford Green, added: “Domino’s Pizza does not actively market to school children.
“We take our position in the local community very responsibly and are happy to work with any local schools should they have any concerns.”
But Cllr Barbara White said: “I can understand if these businesses are not happy but It's a very, very important subject and I do think we must take action.
“Obesity leads to things like diabetes and cancer and it is very worrying to think of the effect on our children's future when so many of them are eating fast food at lunchtimes and after school on a regular basis.
“This is not about taking away anyone's livelihoods and closing down existing premises, but we have to start somewhere in tackling this problem.
“I'm not expecting miracles but I think a lot of my colleagues will agree with it, and this could be the first drop of water that breaks the stone.”
The council will discuss Cllr White's motion on Thursday (July 15).
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