October 6th 2024.
A new fish and chip shop is causing concern among the health board in north-west Wales. The board is worried about the potential impact of junk food on the obesity levels of the locals. In an effort to promote healthier eating habits, they have advised the shop to offer fresh and affordable fruit and vegetables alongside their traditional menu items.
The proposed chip shop, located in Morfa Bychan, Gwynedd, is in a popular tourist area. This means that many of the local businesses cater to the demands of tourists rather than the needs of the permanent residents. The health board is worried that increased access to unhealthy food options could lead to weight gain among the locals. To combat this, they have suggested that the chip shop also offer healthier alternatives such as kale and watercress with their chips and fish. They have also recommended providing access to tap water so that customers can refill their water bottles instead of purchasing sugary drinks.
The health board has expressed their concerns through a planning application, stating that the availability of junk food throughout the year, rather than just during holiday periods, is a particular concern for the permanent residents. They have also cited research that shows a link between increased access to unhealthy food outlets and higher rates of obesity, especially in low-income areas. While the chip shop may only be one additional takeaway in the area, the board believes that every effort should be made to promote healthier options.
The local council in Porthmadog has also raised concerns about the proposed chip shop. They have pointed out that there are already a number of businesses in the area, including another chip shop, and are worried about potential traffic and parking issues. These concerns add to the health board's worries about the negative impact of the new chip shop on the community.
According to official figures, around 26% of adults in Wales are classified as obese. However, the innovation charity Nesta suggests that the true figure is actually 34%, making Wales the most obese nation in the UK. The health board has noted that obesity levels in Gwynedd are already well above the national average. Public Health Wales has estimated that the cost of obesity to the NHS in Wales is around £73m, with projections showing it could reach £465m by 2050.
In response to the concerns raised by the health board and the council, a spokesperson for Betsi Cadwaladr health board stated that their Public Health Team routinely responds to planning applications that could have an impact on public health. This includes food applications, as promoting healthy eating habits is a top priority for the board. Ultimately, their goal is to ensure that the community has access to fresh and affordable food options that support a healthy lifestyle.
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