PIZZA chain Domino’s has been granted planning permission to open a store in the former Blockbuster’s branch – but local residents have expressed their disappointment that their objections were ignored.

Work recently began to refurbish the Windsor Road store, after planning permission was granted from change of use from retail to a hot food takeaway, and it is expected to be open to the public in time for summer.

Penarth councillors raised concerns about parking, littering and the affect on surrounding businesses during a town council planning committee meeting earlier this year.

Following their recommendation that the planning application be turned down local residents on Windsor Road wrote letters to oppose the application, but their campaign was unsuccessful and the Vale Council approved the bid.

A spokesman from Domino’s said they were “delighted” to be granted planning approval and said that the pizza chain “strives to be a good neighbour in every location in which it is based”.

The takeaway will be open from 9am until 11pm seven days a week.

Pete Williams, of Windsor Road, said local residents were frustrated that their letters of objection against the planning application were unsuccessful.

“We are opposed to the hours they are open until, the noise pollution they will have and the various smells of pizza wafting down into our gardens,” he said.

He added that they were also concerned about rubbish collection and people leaving discarded pizza boxes across the roads, and the affect on surrounding businesses and residents.

“They might have private bins inside but people won’t use them,” he said.

“I don’t think it’s the right kind of establishment in the right place, if it was nearer the high street I would understand, but having a fast food restaurant right next door to terraced houses encroaches on their space.”

He added that they were also concerned about the increase in traffic and parking.

“It’s going to make it even more frustrating as if you have a Domino’s there will be lots of people turning up waiting for their food,” he said

“I think we are getting the short end of the stick.

“It’s doing Penarth no benefit at all.”

A spokesman for Domino’s Pizza said: “We are delighted to have been granted planning approval to open a new store in the former Blockbuster's building on Windsor Road.

“Work has begun to give the premises an extensive refit and rejuvenate a tired looking unit which has been vacant for many months. We’re looking forward to creating a smart new store in this location and hope to open our doors in the summer.”

He added: “Opening a new store in Penarth will generate around 25 – 35 new jobs for local people.

“Domino’s Pizza strives to be a good neighbour in every location in which it is based and our franchisees work very hard to play an active role in the community, not only by delivering great tasting pizza but also by supporting numerous local charities, groups and events.”