A LONG-running Ashburton planning wrangle is to be discussed at a Dartmoor National Park Authority meeting today.

Members will consider planning permission for an extraction system that may save indian takeaway business Shahnaz in West Street.

The extraction system is judged by environmental health to be a nuisance but in September, plans to replace it were refused because of environmental health requirements and reasons of conservation, though members supported the application in principle.

Eight months later, a less intrusive design has been submitted by owner Joynal Abedin.

The proposal is to install a flue through the side wall of the building that will be soundproofed and encased in rendered coating.

The archaeology and historic buildings section of the authority has admitted that 'this is the least intrusive design submitted', but the committee has been recommended to refuse the application because the proposed extraction system would be harmful to the character and appearance of the Ashburton conservation area.

An even less intrusive system may not meet environmental health requirements.

It is likely that the popular takeaway will have to close unless a satisfactory extraction system is put in place.

The authority has received letters of support for the proposal and Ashburton town council has recommended approval.

One resident has raised concern about the visual effect of the flue on their property.

Mr Abedin said: 'If it is refused, I will be really shocked.

'Everything is fine and we've done everything they're asking for.

'We are quite certain we have fulfiled their demands and if it is refused then I don't know what the next step is.

'We are very happy in Ashburton and after four years we have settled down.'

Cllr Stuart Barker, a supporter of the scheme, said: 'Under the local plan in Dartmoor there is the opportunity to support local businesses and planning applications which will result in improvements in environmental quality and that will be of benefit to the community.

'It is grossly unfair that the environmental health officers have imposed a new extraction system that cannot be delivered because of design.

'It is the least intrusive system that can be devised that meets the needs of the environmental health officer. I do not understand why it is recommended for refusal.'