'Multi-Million-Pound' McDonald's Bid To Come Before Planning Committee

Isle of Wight Council officers say plans for a ‘multi-million-pound’ McDonald’s restaurant should be refused due to it being ‘within walking distance’ of a school.

The proposed ‘drive thru’ facility off Newport Road in Lake is due to come before the planning committee next Tuesday.

Officers also flagged its failure to meet ‘policy requirements on health implications’, ‘adverse impact on neighbouring property’, location outside of a designated town centre, ‘insufficient information on archaeology’ and the lack of a legal agreement for environmental improvements.

A Planning Statement written by Planware on behalf of McDonald’s says:

“The proposals provide the opportunity for McDonald’s to meet a long-standing requirement for a restaurant to serve this catchment area, to meet customer demand and introduce additional choice in the market.

“The proposed development represents a multi-million-pound investment creating jobs both during the construction and operation phases, resulting in many associated economic benefits for the local area.

“The proposal constitutes sustainable development on a brownfield site, in a commercial area, surrounded by similar and compatible uses.”

A total of 124 members of the public have signalled their support for the fast-food giant’s application, according to a planning committee report.

Grounds given include increased employment, the use of derelict land, added choice of convenience food, improving the look of the area and the development’s proximity to workplaces, holiday parks and residences.

Supporters also cited the food’s affordability, the project’s sustainable design and McDonald’s community engagement projects.

Thirteen people opposed the bid, however, pointing to rubbish generation, long-term health impacts in a deprived area, excessive unhealthy food provision in Lake, traffic congestion and the outlet’s poorly paid and low skilled jobs.

Objections also include negative effects on locally owned businesses, possible lighting disturbance, failure to flag the development’s proximity to a school and access concerns.

The planning committee will meet at County Hall at 4pm next Tuesday.