Decision looms on contentious Broadstone Pizza Hut plan

Plans to change the use of a high street premises in Lower Blandford Road, Broadstone, will be decided by BCP Council’s planning committee on Thursday, May 19.

The proposal has been called in by ward councillor Vikki Slade.

Read more: Winifreds in Broadstone closes amid Pizza Hut takeaway plan

The Liberal democrat councillor has concerns over increased vehicle movements into a restricted car park and the proliferation of mopeds and delivery drivers topping on zig-zag line and in a bus stop.

Winnifreds and the plans for Pizza Hut

She also voiced fears over “excessive” noise and disruption and the loss of the existing retail unit which has been in operation as a gift shop and delicatessen since 2020.

“There has been a boost to the high street and it is a popular store,” said Cllr Slade. “To remain vibrant, Broadstone needs a range of building uses.

“There are already three takeaway units (two are speciality pizza, the other sells pizzas alongside other items) on this side of Lower Blandford Road. There are also three other takeaways/restaurants in Broadstone and an additional fast food outlet that specialises in pizzas and kebabs.

Read more: Mamas & Papas to open at Poole store this week

“This will make eight places to buy a takeaway pizza in the middle of Broadstone – this will distort the commercial centre of the community.”

As reported, home styling and gifts shop Winifreds 1929 closed in March ahead of the planned arrival of Pizza Hut.

The takeaway would see a new shopfront put on the premises along with associated plant and extraction equipment.

Just shy of 50 objections have been submitted by residents along with an objection from Broadstone Neighbourhood Forum.

However, BCP Council planning officers have recommended approval of the scheme.

A report to the planning committee by case officer Peter Whitehead said: “In summary, whilst the concerns of local residents are noted, the site lies within part of the district centre where further hot food takeaways and other non-retail uses are supported by policy.

“The impacts of the use cannot be readily distinguished from other takeaways operating in the local area, and no objections have been received from either the council’s environmental health or highway officers.”