PLANS for an outdoor seating area at a popular Balloch chippy have been given the green light.

The Blue Lagoon on Balloch Road has been granted a licence for 12 months to set up tables and chairs to help meet customer demands who want to eat outside. 

The application was brought before West Dunbartonshire Council’s infrastructure, regeneration and economic development committee last Wednesday.

Angelo Varese, who owns the business, explained that the public has indicated that they like being able to sit outside and enjoy their food.

He said: “They want to be out in the fresh air when the weather is as nice as it has been this summer. 

“We had a trial this year for an outdoor seating area across the street which was not allowed to continue. We were very disappointed at this decision as we felt the trial went well, there were minimal complaints and litter was dealt with.

“Concerns were raised about people crossing the street safely but thankfully there were no issues in that regard. 

“After being told we could not extend this we thought about using the pavement outside our shop. I really don’t see any reasons why we can’t give the people what they want.

“We will work with the council to address any issues that may arise and adjust things as we go along.”

Stephen McGown, the Blue Lagoon’s representative, explained this was a family business which has been running for more than 50 years. 

He said: “They operate various premises mainly across the West of Scotland but they do have shops as far north as Perth.

“The proposal is a relatively modest provision of four tables outside the shop and my client is keen to get across that this proposal is not something that is driven by profitability but to meet customer demand for some sort of outdoor provision.

“Outdoor space is very important for restaurants in the current times which is hopefully a temporary situation.”

Following the discussion councillors agreed to the proposals.