An Italian restaurant and takeaway has withdrawn plans to extend into a former butchers.

San Giorgio Pizzeria in Abbots Langley High Street said moving into the Simon East Butchers would allow them to be able to seat more customers.

The family-run butchers closed for good recently after 50 years of trading. Owner Russell Hansard said the pandemic, cost of living, and the number of working hours required played a role in the decision to shut.

Read more: Family-run butchers shop is closing after 50 years of serving the community

The application submitted by San Giorgio, which opened in Abbots Langley in 2021, to Three Rivers District Council sought to incorporate the butchers’ site into its existing business.

Watford Observer: A screenshot from the council planning portal showing the pizzeria to the right of the butchers, which has closedA screenshot from the council planning portal showing the pizzeria to the right of the butchers, which has closed (Image: via Three Rivers District Council planning portal)

The proposal would "increase footfall" and allow space for more tables and chairs for the restaurant, which also operates as a bakery, café and takeaway serving dishes including pizza and pasta.

But a letter dated October 19 by the district council to Abbots Langley Parish Council revealed the plans have been dropped.

The letter read: “The above application has been withdrawn on 19 October 2022 and no further action will be taken on it.”

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