A COMMUNITY group is celebrating after a planned fish and chip shop in Sidcup was blocked by Bexley Council.

The owner of the former Ebdons Tours branch at number 38 applied to turn it into a takeaway but Sidcup Community Group, North Cray Residents Association and Manor House Neighbourhood Residents Association were all opposed.

Eight residents joined them in writing to the council arguing against the plans, arguing it would create too much litter, cause traffic congestion, encourage antisocial behaviour and give off unpleasant cooking smells.

At a planning committee meeting on June 28, the application was rejected on the grounds it would put pedestrians in danger, increase traffic congestion and add to more than 30 food outlets already in the High Street.

Sidcup Community Group spokesman Paul Laundy said: "The group is relieved that an application for another takeaway in the High Street has been refused by Bexley Council's planning committee.

"We share the concern over the location of number 38 so close to a pedestrian crossing. We would be against additional takeaway establishments wherever they are located in the High Street.

"Retail not food consumption establishments should be encouraged and residents are already suffering from litter and noise."