Protesters demonstrate against planned McDonald's

Protesters gathered to demonstrate against plans for a new McDonald's in a suburb of Birmingham.

Proposals for a new fast food branch, yet to be submitted, include a new restaurant and drive-through on land off Hazelwell Lane in Stirchley.

More than 1,300 people have signed a petition against the plans, which some residents said could affect independent businesses and cause traffic and environmental problems in the area.

McDonald's said it was committed to listening to the views of the local community and welcomed feedback, with an online consultation ongoing until 26 November.

A group of residents gathered to protest against the plans on Pershore Road, opposite the proposed site, on Tuesday afternoon.

Shirley Harris, who has lived in Stirchley all of her life, said it had changed from a "vibrant little village" with lots of independent shops.

She said she did not approve "of any place which would be a drive-in, drive-out food place," adding that "the traffic is so congested already."

Another protester, Alice Jones, said she was against McDonald's coming to the area primarily for "health reasons" and the "effects of obesity on our community."

McDonald's said the new branch would create about 100 new jobs for local people and generate about £45,000 in business rates per year for Birmingham City Council.

Resident Keith Mowbray said he thought a new McDonald's was a "great idea" as the local area needed it.

"They're reliable, the food's good, and let's be honest, we all love them," he said.

"An investment like McDonald's, which is a lot of money, employs a lot of people, is good for the area."

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