THE vitality of Winton’s high street will be threatened by the opening of a new beauty salon, a councillor has claimed.

Sugar Rush Beauty, which is currently based in Bear Cross, is relocating into an empty sports shop in Wimborne Road.

Owner Paris Carr, who launched her business four years ago aged just 18, said they would employ three new therapists and create a new apprentice position.

But Winton East Councillor Theo Stratton said he had been contacted by unhappy residents, who feel there are too many similar businesses in the area.

“There are lots of tanning and beauty salons in Winton, I think this would be the fifth one” he said.

“I’m very worried about the state of the high street. It’s pretty close to being great and I fear this could really damage it.

“I hate saying I don’t like a new business opening but I worry this will be one too many.”

Bournemouth council planners have also got involved, warning Paris she may need change of use planning permission, depending on the services offered.

But Paris said she had already checked this and it did not apply to her.

“There’s actually only one proper beauty salon in Winton high street and that’s right down the other end,” she said. “We will not have any sunbeds, we will just be offering spray tans.

“We’re not moving to be in competition with anybody, we just want to expand and we want a shop with more passing trade.

“I’ve had a lot of positive comments from residents who don’t want to see the shop empty and covered in graffiti anymore so I’m pretty sure it’s just a minority of people who are making the negative comments.

“We’re having a launch event on Sunday, July 7 and I hope people come down and see what we have to offer.”