By Joe McCann
RESIDENTS in Comber have raised concerns over the ongoing transformation of a bookmakers into a fast-food takeaway.
Locals have complained that the ongoing renovations to the old ValueBet bookmakers on 61 Castle Street have violated planning permission and have raised objections to the development due to concerns over noise and food smells.
Ards and North Down Council has confirmed that officials are currently investigating two potential breaches of planning permission at the site, which is currently being converted into a Domino’s Pizza takeaway.
A petition, which has gathered a number of signatures, highlighted that residents were concerned about construction activity not meeting planning regulations, concerns about food smells and parking considerations when the business is operational.
It is also noted several objections came from other takeaway owners on the street and residents who live behind the new premises who raised objections about noise and food smells.
The council has confirmed there are currently two investigations into complaints made regarding the works at the site, one involving a breach of planning control and one related to the unauthorised removal of trees at the site.
A spokeswoman for Ards and North Down Council said: “There is a planning application being processed by Ards and North Down Borough Council for the change of use from bookmakers to hot food unit at 61 Castle Street, Comber which was submitted to the council on May 15, 2025.
“This application was listed on the delegated list on Monday, November 24 with a recommendation to approve.
“The council received a complaint in relation to an alleged breach of planning control at the same site on November 26 and opened a planning enforcement case. A subsequent complaint has also been received relating to the alleged unauthorised removal of trees and this is being investigated.
“Both planning enforcement cases are currently being progressed,” she said.
