Domino’s Pizza is set to open a new outlet at Saxon Place in Cheddar, Somerset, just yards from the entrance of Kings Academy (formerly Kings of Wessex Academy), after receiving approval from local councillors despite opposition from the community.
The proposed location, near the A371 Station Road, occupies units 5 and 6 of Saxon Place, close to the village’s Tesco Express store. These units were formerly home to Factory Bargains. The front of unit 5 will serve as the customer entrance, with food preparation on the ground floor and office space on the first floor. The outlet will operate daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., creating ten full-time and 15 part-time jobs for the local community.
The opening plans sparked strong criticism from Cheddar Parish Council and Kings Academy headteacher Joanne Cowper, both of whom voiced concerns about the health impact on students. Cowper warned that the pizza outlet’s proximity could contribute to obesity risks and negatively affect pupils’ academic performance.
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Paul Fineran, a member of Cheddar Parish Council, urged the planning committee to reject the proposal. He argued the outlet’s location would harm local students and damage Cheddar’s appeal as a tourist destination. Fineran highlighted existing takeaway options in the area and expressed concerns about litter attracting rodents and increasing public health risks.
However, some councillors dismissed these objections. Councillor Alistair Hendry noted the presence of similar fast food options nearby, including Tesco’s warm pasties and sausage rolls, and questioned whether students would realistically choose to buy pizza during school hours. Councillor Pauline Ham pointed out that the site represents a chance to revitalize an unused property, potentially reducing gatherings of youths engaged in antisocial behavior.
In contrast, Councillor Gill Slocombe opposed the decision, citing the council’s responsibility to promote public health and expressing concern about the potential exploitation of children near the school.
After a half-hour debate, Somerset Council’s planning committee north voted eight in favor, three against, with one abstention to approve the Domino’s Pizza outlet. The decision reflects a balance between economic development and community concerns amid an ongoing debate about public health and youth wellbeing.