A TAKE-AWAY has been refused permission to open on Sundays because of fears over increased traffic and noise.

The Four Seasons Pizzeria in Rimswell Parade, Stockton, had applied to be allowed to open seven days a week to increase trade.

The pizzeria only started trading after the Secretary of State for the Environment upheld an appeal by its owner against Stockton Borough Council's decision to stop it opening.

The shop was granted permission to open from 10am to 10pm, Monday to Saturday.

The owner applied to be allowed to open on Sunday between 4pm and 10pm, but was refused permission by the council and lost an appeal.

The latest application was for Sunday opening from 4pm to 9pm.

A number of neighbours objected, expressing concerns over potential noise, traffic, litter and the fear of other take-aways in the area applying for the same Sunday rights.

Ward councillor Bill Woodhead said: "This is an encroachment into the restful hours of the residents.

The council refused the application and is to take action against the shop, which was alleged to be distributing flyers advertising it was open on Sundays.

"This opposition was emphasised by the strength of the petition presented to the inspector in the recent appeal by the application.