CONCERNS have been raised about a bid to transform a former charity shop into a nail salon.

The former Sue Ryder shop on Haddington’s Market Street could be changed into a new business.

The town’s community council raised concerns about the plans, which are being considered by East Lothian Council, at its virtual meeting.

Paul Darling, one of the community council’s planning liaison officers, said that the planned changes, which show minimal alterations inside, were “perfectly acceptable”.

However, Mr Darling highlighted the close proximity of other nail bars, with the number of such businesses also referenced in a letter to the group.

Fellow community councillor Fiona-Frances Adam said: “Some people [in this line of business] are going to go to the wall.”

The concerns were not unanimous though, with Morgwn Davies questioning whether there were any grounds for objection.

He said: “They are applying for the use of the premises.

“The fact there are other businesses supplying that service is not a planning issue as such.”

A statement included with Trong Hai Nguyen’s application for 13 Market Street highlights what is intended for the former charity shop.

It reads: “The proposed use is a nail salon with opening time from 9am to 7pm.

“The business will consist of a team of three part-time staff.

“The change of use of this property into a nail salon will support the council’s objective to increase the town centre’s vibrancy, vitality and viability.

“Also this will bring a new employment opportunity and footfall to the High Street.”

Community councillors were urged to make their own objections to the planning department.

A decision on the planning application is due to be made by the planning department this month.