Changes to planning rules held back expansion at Domino's Pizza in the UK & Ireland during the the 26 weeks to 27 June, the company said today.

Domino's opened 19 stores in the region during the period, resulting in a total of 337 branches, against 21 opened during the same period last year.

"Obtaining property has always been a constraint on growth but has been amde more difficult in the current year by the changes in planning use categories," the company said.

"This has resulted in delays in acquiring property in locations required by franchisees."

Domino's expects to open 40-50 new stores in the UK & Ireland this year. In 2003 the group opened 50 outlets.

Despite the constraints on growth, Domino's still saw pre-tax profits surge by 41.5% to £4.1m during the six months.

Sales across the whole chain expanded by 18.8% to £81.5m, while like-for-like sales rose by 4.9%.

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