HOUSEHOLDS fear another take-away could open in a conservation area after a company submitted an application for a food outlet even though it has already been granted permission to build flats and shops.

Chalkwell Holdings Ltd, which is based in the British Virgin Islands, can knock down 1-5 Station Approach near Snaresbrook station and create four flats and three retail units.

But the company has now asked for permission to extend opening hours and establish either a restaurant or take-away.

This has prompted a number of people living near the site to object to the move.

Rayman Suneja of The Rise said: "I feel the applicants misled us when they received approval for the previous application.

"They made their first application more attractive....once approved they have now applied for change of use.

"I think this is underhand and they are playing the system to the detriment of the local area."

Richard Kingswood, also of The Rise, agreed. He said: "I am concerned that planning permission for yet another takeaway is about to slip through 'on the quiet'."

Sally Kelly, of Spratt Hall Road, said in her letter of objection: "I am very concerned with this and feel we have more than enough places where you can buy takeaway food."

She added Wanstead already has two supermarkets, three bakers, and a number of Chinese, Indian, pizza and fish and chip takeaways, as well as at least four coffee shops.

"The appearance of Wanstead High Street will soon have no local shops, which I as a resident support," she said.

The Wanstead Society has also objected to the plans, stating a fast food restaurant will encourage antisocial behaviour.

Society spokesman Geoff Horsnell said: "The Wanstead Society also believes that Wanstead as a whole does not need any more takeaway retail units. This application is thus a step too far."

Comments on the application can be submitted until October 30.

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