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Plans for a new ‘multi-million-pound’ McDonald’s restaurant on the Isle of Wight were waved through last night (Tuesday), subject to conditions.
The planning committee ditched council officers’ recommendation to reject the proposed ‘drive thru’ facility off Newport Road in Lake.
Councillor Paul Fuller voted against the approval motion and councillors Claire Critchison and Julie Jones-Evans abstained.
Eight other councillors voted for the application: Matthew Price, Debbie Andre, Geoff Brodie, Caroline Gladwin, Nick Stuart, Martin Oliver, Chris Quirk and Peter Spink.
Planners’ objections
Planners flagged the proposal’s 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 statement written by Planware on behalf of McDonald’s said,
“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.”
Messages of support
Before this evening’s meeting, 124 members of the public signalled their support for the fast-food giant’s bid, according to planners’ report.
Grounds given included 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.
Against the application
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 included negative effects on locally owned businesses, possible lighting disturbance, failure to flag the development’s proximity to a school and access concerns.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
