Approval sought for controversial takeaway frontage

A Turkish takeaway restaurant in Herefordshire conservation area is seeking retrospective permission for its new frontage following “many complaints” about it.

The new look given to the former DT Waller & Sons butchers in The Homend, Ledbury, when it became Diamond Köz Turkish restaurant at the start of this year, was branded “an eyesore” and “gangsta bling” by locals online.

Now the restaurant has applied for retrospective planning permission (number 260870 ) for “the replacement of the existing timber-framed bay window with a metal-framed window, a larger metal fascia sign positioned over the existing timber fascia, and overhead lighting” at the premises.

An accompanying statement says the window is “in a form and proportion that reflects the rhythm and scale of the existing historic bay, with a finish and detailing that avoids visual dominance or discord with neighbouring properties”.

The sign and overhead lights meanwhile are “proportionate in size, colour, and design, avoiding excessive visual intrusion and ensuring the shopfront continues to complement the building’s historic character”.

Ledbury North ward councillor and chairman of Ledbury Town Council Liz Harvey said in her ward report to the town council in February that she had received “a large number of complaints and concerns from residents regarding the works undertaken to the shop front”.

“Planning enforcement, heritage and conservation and building control officers are all involved in investigating the works undertaken,” she said.

“A planning contravention order has been issued to the property owner.”

A Planning Contravention Notice or PCN is often served on a property ahead of a full Enforcement Notice – though such a notice does not appear on Herefordshire Council’s reinstated planning enforcement register.

Comments on the planning application can be made until May 8.