AN INDIAN restaurant at the centre of an extractor fan dispute could have its kitchen moved to resolve an issue that has led nearby residents to kick up a stink.

Severn Indian Cuisine, in Bewdley, has applied to build a catering kitchen to the back of the Load Street eatery with a new extraction system to reduce odour and noise pollution. It follows complaints about the current extractor fan in an alleyway next to the restaurant surrounded by flats, after residents claimed the smell of cooking was blowing into their homes.

The proposed extraction flue would be made to look like a chimney matching the existing brickwork, while the new ductwork would be installed at a high level, away from the nearby homes.

If plans go-ahead, the kitchen would be moved from the basement to the ground floor, while a door would replace a window to provide a fire escape from the new kitchen area.

Wyre Forest planners are expected to give the proposals the green light at a meeting tonight, despite objections from a resident, who claims the kitchen would be built underneath their lounge.

The objection letter said: “We are concerned about the extra noise that having a kitchen underneath us will make as we have a daughter who sleeps on the same level as our lounge and we are concerned about her being kept awake, as well as the noise pollution to our home.”

It added the proposed new fire exit door was below the property and they were concerned it would be left open, causing noise, cooking fumes and smells to “affect our property internally”.

Another resident welcomed the plans, however, adding: “I am glad that this new application will create a solution to the poorly installed extraction method currently in the alleyway.”

Julia McKenzie-Watts, the Wyre Forest District Council case officer dealing with the application, said: “It is considered that the proposed relocation of the kitchen and associated ductwork and chimney would result in an improved situation for the neighbour as extensive sound proofing and fire insulation works are to be carried out. The relocation will not have an undue impact on local amenity or the historic interest of the listed building.”

The plans have been recommended for approval.