FAST food shops are spreading faster in an East Lancashire town than their customers' waistlines, according to a worried councillor.

Tony Leo said Nelson was 'overflowing' with takeaways as another plan to change a shop into a fast food outlet was put in front of councillors.

Pendle Council's Nelson area committee deferred a decision on a planning application to turn a former double glazing shop in Market Street into a hot food takeaway.

They need further details, such as opening hours, before arriving at a decision on the proposal.

Coun Leo told the committee last night: "Nelson is overflowing with takeaways. There are so many that I don't know how they keep in business.

"Having another one in a centre spot like Market Street is adding insult to injury. I don't think we should have another one in a major shopping area. Let's find a specialist use not another takeaway."

But his Labour colleague Councillor Azhar Ali pointed out: "We would have difficulty refusing this on planning grounds because there aren't any. Simple as that!"

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