School Takeaway Ban To Go Before Wrexham Council

Plans to ban takeaways within 400m of schools will go before Wrexham Council next week. 

The proposals would restrict new takeaways from being opened close to Wrexham’s schools as part of an update to Local Planning Guidance.

If implemented the ban would be the first of its kind in Wales and Mr Isted said that the council had already had enquiries form other local authorities who were interested in following suit if the ban is a success.

Lawrence Isted, Head of Community Wellbeing and Development said that the measures were a small but important part of wider planning aimed at reducing obesity in the town.

Figures included within a report which is set to go before Wrexham Council’s executive board on Tuesday, reveal that 25% of children aged 8-9 in Wrexham’s schools are either overweight or obese, with obesity figures for adults in Wrexham standing at 54%.

The guidance will not affect existing takeaways near schools, however there are currently four secondary schools with no takeaways within 400m, those being Penley, Ruabon, Morgan Llwyd and St Joseph’s.

Darland and Rhosnesni High Schools both have a single fast good outlet within that range, but a council spokesperson said it was hoped that the measures would prevent any further proliferation around the schools.

The policy is also designed to prevent fast food outlets opening near one third of primary schools and to prevent the proliferation of them at a quarter more.

Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board has already shown its support for the measures along with the council’s youth parliament.

Do you think Wrexham Council’s takeaway ban will be effective in reducing childhood obesity? Leave your thoughts in the comment box below.