One Shutter Down - Two to Go

Action taken against unsightly frontages to local take-aways

Council action to secure the removal of unsightly external shutters at three Putney fast food take-aways has had its first success.

Daisy's at 52 Lower Richmond Road was the first of the shops to take down its shutters. The outlet was one of three being considered by councillors at a recent planning applications committee.

The committee was told that further action in Daisy's case was not necessary.

However councillors ordered the removal of similar shutters at two other premises: Naki's Fish Bar at 178 Lower Richmond Road and the Food Hut at 236 Upper Richmond Road.

Planning applications chairman Leslie McDonnell said, "There is lot of concern locally about the way these solid metal shutters downgrade the appearance of an area. Shopping streets should be vibrant and welcoming but these shutters present an intimidating, fortress-like facade. There are better ways in which shop-owners can secure their premises and make them more attractive. Anyone thinking of installing this type of screen should seek advice first from the planning service."

Enforcement officers will now arrange for the shutters to be taken down at the shops which have still to comply with the council's conditions.

October 16, 2007