MCDONALD’S plan to serve up another restaurant and drive-through in Dumfries could be refused next week.
It’s due to be discussed by councillors on Thursday but planners are recommending it’s turned down as they say the chosen site just off Annan Road is not suitable.
The fast-food chain’s planning application features a drive-through facility, service yard, and 45 car parking spaces.
The restaurant would create new jobs in the community and planning papers say that the development would be a £4 million investment in the town.
However, case officer Claire Eckstein is advising elected members to reject it, primarily on the grounds that the site is not suitable and also because she says a McDonald’s restaurant at this spot would have an “unduly detrimental visual impact”.
The proposal has also sparked an angry reaction from some members of the public – and eight formal objections. Six of those came from Dumfries residents, one from a person living in Palnackie, and another living in Moniaive.
Their concerns centred around the environment, traffic issues, and litter.
In their submission, one of the objectors wrote: “Dumfries is awash with fast food and unhealthy eating establishments as well as ‘convenience stores’.
“Is it not time that the town decided to upgrade its image and become a place well known for its good food rather than its cheap unhealthy food?
“Obesity has become a major issue amongst the population, not just of Dumfries but country-wide. Eating fast food does not help with this problem.
“Education and help is needed to wean people off this very addictive food. Opening yet another McDonald’s is not going to help this aim.”
These are wider health arguments and not material planning considerations, which councillors will be focusing on when considering the application at next week’s planning committee.
