An Essex council has rejected plans for an Essex kebab shop to put tables and chairs on the pavement outside the business. 

Burnham Grill, in Burnham High Street, had planned to put four tables and eight chairs for customer seating outside the business every day from midday to midnight until September 2029. 

The council raised concerns about the impacts on pedestrians and wheelchair users using the pavement, and the authority also said not enough information was provided for the proposals. Documents included by the businesses state that a clear pedestrian pathway would be maintained, no permanent fixtures would be required, and all furniture would be removable at the close of business. 

A risk assessment document also says that under the plans, a minimum of two-metre clear pedestrian pathway would be maintained at all times, furniture would be positioned to avoid creating obstacles, pedestrians would be regularly monitored, the seating area would be clearly demarcated using removable barriers, and staff would be trained on maintaining a clear pathway.

The council's refusal notice states: "The proposed location of the street furniture would not comply with the national guidance provided as it would disrupt and impact the free flow of pedestrian movement. Furthermore, the proposed location of the street furniture would not provide sufficient space to allow for the passing of wheelchair users and pedestrians.

"The council provided a comprehensive list of the information to be submitted to support this type of application. However, insufficient information has been provided in line with this requirement; therefore, the application contradicts this guidance. Without all the information required, the council is unable to accurately access the submission and to ensure that the proposal will comply with the legislation, guidance and restrict the council's ability to impose appropriate conditions."