Plans Submitted For McDonald’s Drive Thru In Cowes

Plans for a new McDonald’s Drive Thru restaurant have been submitted to the Isle of Wight Council.

The fast-food chain is proposing a new branch on land next to Esplanade Garage on Three Gates Road in Cowes.

The application includes car parking, landscaping and associated works, including Customer Order Displays.

According to planning consultants Planware, the development would represent a multi-million-pound investment and could create more than 120 full and part-time jobs, with McDonald’s aiming to recruit staff locally.

However, the proposal has already attracted opposition. A petition launched earlier this year against the Drive Thru has received more than 1,400 signatures.

The Change.org appeal, started by Alexis Hollis, raises concerns about “lights, noise, litter and constant cars”, warning the development could impact the local community and nearby ecosystems.

It also highlights existing traffic issues on Three Gates Road, claiming the Drive Thru could worsen congestion and road safety.

The petition adds that the scheme could “set a worrying precedent for future developments in residential areas” and urges action to protect the character of Cowes.

In a planning statement, Planware said pre-application advice was sought from council officers, with a meeting held and written feedback received in September 2025.

The consultants also confirmed two public consultation events were carried out — one online and one in person — which helped shape the proposal.

They added the development has been designed to be environmentally, socially and economically sustainable, with sufficient parking provided, including accessible bays close to the entrance.

The building’s design would use natural and neutral colours and materials to suit the surrounding area.

The council’s public consultation on the application (25/01634/FUL) runs until 23 January, with a decision expected on 13 February.