An appeal to open a sushi and sandwich bar in Glasgow city centre has been thrown out by councillors following concern over ventilation facilities.
A planning application, for the building at 7 Bothwell Street, had previously been rejected by the council because there was no space to install a flue or other method to remove cooking fumes.
Concerns had also been raised that four small tables and chairs would be placed on a public footpath behind a moveable barrier which was not in accordance with the local development plan.
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But the applicants, Bothwell Sushi Ltd, objected to the concerns on the grounds that the sandwich bar would have no requirements for ovens or other large heating appliances as it would mainly offer cold dishes as well as teas, coffees, wines, beers and other drinks.
They argued that any hot food or drink could be heated by a microwave oven and that there was no need for an extraction system.
The appeal was brought before the planning local review committee this morning but members still had the same concerns.
Councillor Paul Leinster said: “As we have heard, the applicant says they would only use a microwave. I think for me that is just insurmountable without a flue or extraction fan.
“I just don’t see how we can grant this and know that it means any cooking at all can be done on the premises at any point in the future.”
Councillor Kenny McLean added: “It is not just about the current use which is proposed by the applicant it is for the future. My concern would be consenting to a use where the premises don’t seem to be able to have a flue and would be allowing hot food.”
Concerns were then raised about the outdoor seating area which would be situated on Bothwell Street.
Councillor Patricia Ferguson said: “I just wanted to agree with colleagues that what we are looking at today is not an application for a cafe and sushi bar but it’s an application for a class three food premises and on that basis the application doesn’t meet the requirements of such a recommendation.
“I feel that this might be rejected. I also have concerns about the on street seating area not being able to comply with our criteria that has been set for such areas. I think those two facts alone would make me concerned about this application.”
Following the discussion, councillors unanimously agreed to reject the application.
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