CONTROVERSIAL plans to expand a Southampton kebab shop have been approved.

Locals near to Alf’s Kebab House, on Holly Oak Road, believe the proposed expansion could bring in more unwanted rodents and have a severe impact on noise in the neighbourhood.

However, Southampton City Council gave developers Ken Parke Planning Consultants the green light to transform the former Rogues Barbers next door into a new seating area for customers to eat their meals.

In its covering letter, KPPC said this would provide a better space for patrons as well as better storage for the business itself.

It added: “The area is predominantly residential, however the immediate section of the street hosts five commercial units. The conversion of the unit does not involve any external works and as such there will be no discernible impact to the character of the area.

“As there is no increase to the floor area of the unit, there will be no change to parking needs arriving from the change of its use.

“It is expected however that the majority of customers will be on foot in this residential area.”

The plans were not universally accepted with one resident saying that the number of rats had increased due to takeaway food being thrown on the ground or neighbour’s gardens.

The resident believes it would also have an impact on traffic, parking and noise in the area.

He added: “Myself and the neighbours, do not think it is acceptable to extend the takeaway due to the concerns and problems it will cause outside the shop.

“We have to put up with it, day in and day out, six-days-a-week.

“I, living directly above the barbers, am more effected by the noise, vibrations and echoes in my home.

“I also work night shifts and I’m woken up as soon as the takeaway or barber shop opens everyday without fail.”