New McDonald's Late-Night Refreshment bid Recommended For Approval

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Fast food giant McDonald’s is bidding for a late-night refreshment licence for its new restaurant on the outskirts of Newport.

County Hall officers have recommended the application for the planned outlet at St George’s Way be granted.

The recommendation is for approval as per the submission with any changes to proposed hours and additional conditions the sub-committee consider ‘reasonable and proportionate’ to promote licensing objectives.

These include the prevention of public nuisance, crime and disorder, public safety and protection of children from harm.

McDonald’s is requesting permission for late night refreshment from Monday to Sunday between 11pm and 5am.

The Isle of Wight Council received one relevant representation opposing the application, voicing disquiet that the proposed operation of the premises could result in an increase in litter within the surrounding area.

Concerns also included possible increases in traffic, noise disturbance, light pollution, food odours and the effect these may have on residents and nearby properties.

A council report says:

“In regard to litter the applicant has acknowledged these concerns and confirmed regular litter picks and wider patrols will be in place.

“The applicant’s operating schedule states that, where practical, measures will be put in place to limit noise, that the restaurant doors are self-closing and that customers will be encouraged to be considerate to neighbouring properties when ordering food and leaving the area.

“Whilst odour can relate to the prevention of public nuisance licensing objective, no representation opposing the application was received from Environmental Health, who responded with no comment during the consultation period.”

The paper also said ‘no specific evidence’ has been provided to show late night refreshment is likely to lead to public nuisance from light pollution.

Councillors will consider the application on Tuesday, September 1.