Town's first McDonald's allowed despite opposition

Plans for a town's first McDonald's have been approved by a council for the second time, after concerns were raised over its proximity to schools.

North Norfolk District Council originally approved the application in March for a new drive-through fast food restaurant on Holt Road in Fakenham, Norfolk.

Opponents, however, claimed the authority had not adequately considered the potential adverse health effects the restaurant could have, due to its position near a number of schools.

Despite the opposition, the application has been approved for a second time.

The planning proposal was put forward by Kevin Foley, who already owns 13 branches of McDonald's in Norfolk as a franchise.

While the proposal had been debated by councillors, according to the National Planning Policy Framework, which guides planning decisions, councils should refuse applications for fast-food outlets "within walking distance" of schools, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

The proposed McDonald's is within a 20-minute walk of Fakenham Academy, Duke of Lancaster Academy, Fakenham Junior School and Fakenham Infant and Nursery School.

Following a complaint over the handling of the application, the authority agreed to reconsider the proposals at a planning committee meeting.

Despite this, council officials determined all four schools were a suitable distance away.

People living in the area also previously expressed concern over increased traffic, noise, litter and competition for local businesses.

The site would create up to 120 full and part-time jobs, McDonald's said.

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