Takeaway exclusion zone proposed near schools

Fast food outlets could be banned from opening within 400 metres of schools in one part of Bristol – in a bid to crackdown on child obesity.

Conservative councillors have put forward a motion for the new measure to be included in the new South Gloucestershire local plan, which is currently being worked on.

The move would see a new policy introduced where opening fast food outlets, such as take-aways and burger bars and snack vans, within 400 metres of any primary or secondary school would be prohibited.

The idea is the brainchild of Bradley Stoke South Councillor Roger Avenin.

If agreed the measure would come into force across the whole of South Gloucestershire.

(Gareth Fuller/PA Wire)

It has long been debated about the link between fast food and childhood obesity.

Public Health England believe that obesity related conditions are currently costing the NHS £5.1billon per year and this is thought to be an underestimate.

Some local authorities have already drawn up policies, including through Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs), to restrict developments of fast food outlets in close proximity to schools.

"Have you put weight on?" is the number one question Brits dread being asked at Christmas (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

One such council is Lancashire who recommended the restriction of any fast food outlets opening within 400 meters of secondary schools – but this could be extended to all schools, both under and not under local authority control.

Councillor Avenin said: “The idea is to bring in an exclusion zone of 400 metres around primary and secondary schools.

“There is proof that there is a link between fast foods and childhood obesity.

“The motion to council would see this measure included in our emerging local plan.

“This would mean it would be very difficult for an operator to open within this exclusion zone because it would be against council policy.

“The distance of 400 metres is equivalent to a five minute walk.

“By bringing in this measure it would essentially remove that initial temptation put infront of young people as they leave school.

“Obviously moves such as this would not stop childhood obesity but it would be a step in the right direction.”

The idea will be discussed at the next full council meeting in October.