Lichfield Lib Dems say new Local Plan needs to promote the health of community

Lichfield District Council’s Planning Committee have refused permission for a new MacDonalds off Eastern Avenue.

The decision was made because the proposed opening hours would unacceptably and detrimentally affect the living conditions of nearby residents through the noise and disturbance associated from the coming and goings of customers and food delivery drivers.

Cllr Paul Ray, leader of the Lib Dems on Lichfield District Council, commented;

“I support this decision but it raises another important issue which the Lichfield Lib Dems have raised as part of the consultation for the council’s Local Plan which will set out the strategy for housing and commercial development into the future in our area.

We say that the well-being of our community is so important and the Local Plan should include a local health policy. That will mean that a healthy lifestyle can be promoted for our community through the planning decisions our council takes. For example we could then restrict in our area the number of fast-food restaurants and other outlets that are not consistent with promoting a healthy community. And at the same time the planning system could be used to positively support applications that promote the health of our residents.  

This is not a nanny state approach but our council doing what it can to positively make a difference to improve the health of our community. We all know that we have a health crisis in this country and it is not just for central government to tackle. Here locally our council can put in place measures that can make a difference.”

Paul Ray

Chadsmead ward councillor (Lib Dem) and Lib Dem leader on Lichfield District Council      07771 856931