A BUSINESSMAN is backing a campaign to build a traditional fish and chip shop, after his nearest chippy was turned into a Chinese takeaway.

Linden Harrison is missing the stroll to pick up his twice-weekly fish supper and is now backing a bid to open a new restaurant in Fegg Hayes.

The 60-year-old is disappointed that Fegg Hayes Chippy is now boarded-up for demolition and the former Cish and Fips, in Sprink Bank Road, Chell Heath, has been replaced by Chinese restaurant Wang's.

So he is in support of a shopkeeper's application to open a chippy on the estate, even though it has been rejected by Stoke-on-Trent City Council, which fears the business would disturb residents.

Barncroft Road resident Mr Harrison, who runs a fire protection business, has fish and chips twice a week and wants to be able to walk to get his supper.

And he told The Sentinel: "I'm disappointed Fegg Hayes has no traditional fish and chip shop.

"Cish and Fips was turned into a Chinese and Fegg Hayes Chippy closed, but nothing can beat a fish and chip supper.

"Now I have to drive to the chippy and have to go to the Hazlehurst Arms in Chell or High Lane Master Chef Fish Bar, where it is difficult to park.

"We need a chip shop for everyone, who lives on the estate – and one that serves decent fish and chips."

Balvinder Singh Bhasin applied to open a traditional fish and chip shop and an Indian next to his Premier convenience store at the junction of Oxford Road and Biddulph Road.

But Stoke-on-Trent City Council rejected Mr Bhasin's plans for expansion, because planning officers feared it would mean more noise and disturbance for neighbours.

The 39-year-old appealed against the decision and is now waiting for the council to set a date for the hearing.

Should permission be given, Mr Bhasin hopes to take on three or four new members of staff and open from noon to 2pm and 4.30pm to 11.30pm every day.

Mr Bhasin told The Sentinel he was pleased so many residents were supporting his plans.

He said: "I appreciate people supporting us. It's going to be something for community."

Other Fegg Hayes residents also say they are also keen to see a traditional fish and chip shop on their doorstep.

Cleaner Ian Hives, aged 40, of Warren Road, said: "We definitely need a chippy here. It's a shame Cish and Fips closed, because the fish there was fantastic."

And unemployed Martin Brookes, aged 28, of Buckley Road, said: "I can't see it being a problem if it's only going to be open until 11.30pm. I would like to see a chippy with proper chips, because I don't like those thin chips you get at the Chinese."