Welsh Health Officials Challenge New Takeaway in Ebbw Vale

A proposed takeaway in Ebbw Vale has sparked intervention from health officials concerned about the town’s reputation as one of the unhealthiest in the UK. The application, submitted by Greg Williams, seeks to convert a former beauty salon on Bethcar Street into a fast food outlet. The planning committee of Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council is set to review this application on September 4, 2023.

The initiative comes at a time when Ebbw Vale faces serious public health challenges. According to Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, which oversees the Gwent area, the proliferation of unhealthy food options contributes to rising obesity rates among residents, particularly in low-income neighborhoods. The health board previously expressed similar concerns regarding another fast food establishment in nearby Pontypool.

Data from 2018 indicated that Blaenau Gwent had an alarming 125 fast food outlets per 100,000 residents, ranking it third among Welsh authorities. Ebbw Vale has been particularly impacted, with approximately 73% of its eateries classified as fast food establishments. This trend has resulted in a community that is often described as one of the most obese in Britain, further exacerbated by poor life expectancy rates.

Planning documents for the proposed takeaway highlight the health board’s objections, indicating that increased access to fast food can lead to higher rates of obesity and unhealthy eating behaviors. The board asserts that the location is unsuitable due to the existing concentration of outlets selling food high in fat, salt, and sugar.

Despite these objections, Blaenau Gwent planners argue that the proposed takeaway could revitalize a currently vacant property. They noted that the previous retail uses, including the beauty salon, had garnered little interest. The planners contend that the new establishment could enhance foot traffic in the area and positively impact the vitality of the town center.

The Blaenau Gwent Food Partnership has also voiced concerns, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a diverse retail environment on the high street. They assert that allowing another takeaway would worsen the public health crisis already facing the community.

Current planning policies do not restrict the establishment of fast food outlets, which complicates the health board’s efforts to curb unhealthy food options in the area. As the planning committee prepares to make a decision, the outcome could have significant implications for the town’s health landscape.

The annual monitoring report from Blaenau Gwent indicates that there is only one other takeaway in the specific section of Ebbw Vale where the proposed outlet would be located. The report concluded that the proposed use might contribute positively to local foot traffic and economic viability.

As the planning committee approaches its meeting, the community remains divided on the potential impact of another takeaway in a town already struggling with health issues. The decision will not only affect local businesses but also the overall health and well-being of Ebbw Vale residents.