COUNCIL leader Mehboob Khan has hit back at criticism of his involvement in a new restaurant plan.
The Kirklees Labour man insisted his call for the restaurant in Cross Church Street to be given the go-ahead was a sensible move.
There has been criticism of his comments to this week’s planning committee. Police, ward councillors and planning officers have all opposed the plan, saying it would increase crime on the short street, which is already home to seven takeaways and three bars.
The plan has been submitted by Mr Mohammed Akram, of Marsh, who wants to open in former electrical premises which have been closed since last May.
Clr Khan said: “The owner is a resident in Greenhead Ward and in common on these type of matters, approached one of his ward councillors for help with the planning application.
“Under the council’s delegation scheme for planning applications, any Huddersfield councillor can ask for a planning application in the town centre to be decided by the Planning Committee.
“The applicant has agreed to close the business at 11.30pm to avoid the risk of public disorder.
“As Leader of Kirklees Council, I have ensured that the council plays a strong role in tackling crime and public disorder in all our town centres and I want our town centres to be both safe and vibrant to attract visitors.
“There are many well managed businesses in this part of the town centre that work hard to prevent crime.
“A secondary issue is that if the planning permission is refused then there will be another empty premises in Huddersfield town centre, which is something that all residents are concerned about.
“New jobs would be also be created if the proposal is given the green light.”
