An Italian restaurant could be forced to close if it fails to undo changes made to its shop front.

Canta Napoli in High Street, Teddington, installed a glass front that opens fully and allows diners to enjoy the sunshine but failed to get planning permission from Richmond Council.

The council has now given the restaurant until the end of the month to reverse the changes, which owner Julia Amitrano said would cost about £10,000 and could cripple the business.

She said: “I am sure that we will lose the business.

“We are part of the community. We get children and families in here who like to sit outside and enjoy the sunshine.”

Mrs Amitrano said the restaurant front was in poor condition so had to be changed and she felt the new front was an improvement and allowed the pizza chef to show off his infamous pizza sculptures, which have included a nativity scene and coliseum.

She said: “It’s little local independents that are trying to make a living.

“We give employment. We provide a local service. It feels like they are targeting us.”

A Richmond Council spokesman said: “The premises are protected from inappropriate development as they are designated a building of townscape merit and additionally are located in a conservation area.

“We appreciate the concern raised by the owners and recommend that they liaise with the planning case officer so they understand what they need to do.”