A NELSON business owner has gained the support of hundreds of the town’s residents as she tries to win permission to open a fish and chip restaurant in the town centre.

Paula Gibson, who currently runs Nibbles sandwich bar, in Railway Road, was thwarted in a previous attempt to convert the premises to a traditional chippy due to regulations on types of businesses in the area.

She has now gathered 600 signatures on a petition to present to planners later this month.

Paula, who is 29 and lives in Colne, has run Nibbles for almost three years.

She said a restaurant at the site would add to the vibrancy of the town centre.

She added: “I was turned down because the type of business was not wanted for this area.

“There are ten shops and businesses on this stretch and only one other takeaway.

“I’m looking to grow a business and have always had ambitions to have a restaurant.

“I would employ four part-time staff, but I’m being held back by this red tape.

“If I’m not given the go- ahead this time it’s highly likely I will have to close the current business and move away from the area.”

Paula is encouraging Nelson residents who support her idea for a traditional chippy in the area to add their names to her petition.

Pendle Council’s planning and building control manager Mr Neil Watson said it was not possible to comment in detail on the application, as it is due to be considered by the Nelson Area Committee on February 26.

He stressed the council has clearly defined retail policies which seek to maintain a balance between shops and takeaway outlets in all of Pendle’s town centres.

Recent surveys have shown that this policy is working well, despite the economic downturn.