Plans to open a new pizza takeaway in Leytonstone High Road have been rejected.

Gianluca Colini applied to open the business by converting a dry cleaners near the junction with Harrington Road.

But officers from Waltham Forest Council refused planning permission under delegated powers.

They said the loss of a retail unit in favour of a takeaway would not be in keeping with the authority's policies for the High Road.

Its proximity to three schools, lack of parking and potential to encourage crime in the area were also cited as reasons.