A multi-million-pound McDonald’s drive thru scheme has been refused by Isle of Wight councillors on Tuesday.
Officers warned of health risks
The planning committee’s unanimous vote comes after council officers advised the development next to Three Gates Road in Cowes be rejected, warning the proposal fails to show how it would prevent ill-health in the community.
Six Reform UK councillors, three independents, one Liberal Democrat and a Conservative sit on the panel.
Public response divided
County Hall received 186 representations from members of the public objecting to the plans and 138 letters in support.
There have also been several petitions opposing the McDonald’s, with one signed by 361 people, another with 1,788 digital signatures and a further appeal signed by 141 individuals.
Arguments for and against
Arguments in favour of the plan included job creation, greater choice of convenience food, the restaurant being cheap for families on low income, business rates revenue and the project’s ‘sustainable design’.
Increased noise and disturbance, health concerns over fast food, harm to habitats and wildlife, light pollution, anti-social behaviour, odour, late-night activity, litter, and jobs being part-time and low paid were among points raised by opponents.
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
