DOMINO’S Pizza has been accused of showing ‘blatant disregard’ to Clevedon’s independent traders after submitting plans to open a pizza take away opposite a similar existing outlet.

Numerous objections have been made to the plans for a Domino’s Pizza shop in Old Church Road next to Pizza Magic, an independent pizza delivery business that has been in the town for years.

When the plans were submitted, Pizza Magic director Rosanagh Besley was left shocked.

The 24-year-old said: “It is going to be really difficult to compete with them being such a large chain.

“The fact that they want to open next to us shows their complete disregard.

“They don’t just want to compete, it seems they want to put us out of business.”

As well as Rosanagh’s concerns, 15 objections have been published on the North Somerset Cuncil website against the application, which seeks to change the use of the building from a shop into a food takeaway.

Mike Sutton, owner of Thirteen Menswear in The Triangle, said: “As a retailer I am appalled that a giant like Domino’s would even consider being so blatant in their disregard to hard working local tradesmen like the existing pizza shop owner.

“I for one will be watching North Somerset Council planning department to see if they fold under the pressure of big business or have the integrity to protect one of Clevedon’s small businesses from the giants.”

Claire Novak of Lower Queens Road said: “Within two minutes walk of my flat there are currently seven other fast food outlets and three restaurants that operate in the evenings.”

Nigel Walker also of Lower Queens Road said: “I am disgusted by the proposal for yet another fast food outlet in Clevedon. We already have issues with parking, extra traffic using Lower Queens Road, loitering teenagers, litter and excess noise at weekends.”

A Domino’s Pizza spokesman said: “The location we have identified as a suitable site for this new store is a vacant retail unit located on Old Church Road.

“This building is currently in a state of disrepair so Domino’s intends to restore the building and by doing so will be investing in the progression of the town.

“Domino’s Pizza takes its role as a responsible neighbour very seriously and our franchisees work very hard to play an active role in the community, not only to deliver great tasting pizza but also to support numerous local charities, groups and events.”