PLANS to turn a shop into a takeaway have been refused.

The proposals for the shop in London Road, Grays were turned down owing to concerns about the impact it would have on neighbouring homes.

A council spokesman said: "Planning policy requires that all design proposals should respond to the sensitivity of the site and its surroundings and must contribute positively to the character of the area.

"The proposal would introduce a hot food takeaway within a predominantly residential area, which would lead to unacceptable effects to amenity. The proposal would lead to increased noise, smells and number of visitors to the site."