A crackdown on takeaways proposed by Waltham Forest Council will damage the night-time economy, according to a body representing small businesses.

This week it was revealed that nine in 10 residents surveyed by the council are backing an innovative plan to prevent new fast food shops opening within 400m of schools, parks and other institutions used by young people.

Council leader Clyde Loakes said: “There are 250 fast food shops for every person in this borough. "Regardless of what fast food they serve, we have enough already.We don’t need anymore"

The much publicised attack on fast-food shops was introduced in response to borough residents’ complaints about the noise, litter, parking issues and anti-social behaviour linked to fast-food premises.

It is also hoped that the ban will tempt young people away from an unhealthy diet, in a bid to reduce obesity in the borough.

One in six youngsters are obese, which is one of the highest levels in London, according to the latest figures.

Cllr Loakes has also pledged to get tougher on existing outlets, saying officers will use enforcement powers to regulate litter, food quality, opening hours, and anti-social behaviour.

But Stephen Alambritis, a spokesman for the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), was unhappy about the outcome of the consultation and defended fast-food outlets.

Mr Alambritis told the BBC: "They serve the community. They serve that important night-time economy, which is [worth] over £15-20bn to the High Street.

"It should be all about competition and about the consumer deciding where to go and not councils deciding for them where a fish and chip shop or a Chinese takeaway should be established."

Selami Meric, who runs the Highams Park Kebab House, in The Broadway, also objects to the proposed planning restriction.

He said: “You cannot stop children buying fast food. If you close one shop they will go to another one. I don’t think the council should interfere.”

The owner of Captain Dorego III fast food shop, also in The Broadway, said the council’s plan was too late.

He said: “The council have allowed too many to open up. There are 32 food places in Highams Park alone. It makes it difficult for businesses here with so many of them.

“It is good what they are doing, but it is too late in the day really.”