Opposition has rallied to a multi-million-pound McDonald’s scheme in Cowes, with one objector labelling the proposal a ‘monstrosity’.
Both Cowes and Northwood local councils have joined a backlash to readvertised plans for a restaurant and takeaway, including a 24-hour drive-thru lane, car park, landscaping and customer order displays next to Three Gates Road in Cowes.
Criticisms of the proposal include concern around the application’s effect on the future viability of Cowes High Street and hospitality businesses, an alleged threat of rat infestation, inadequate ecology mitigation and scepticism towards job creation.
Planware previously said the proposals would allow McDonald’s to ‘meet customer demand’ and introduce extra market choice. The fast-food giant’s agent said 120 jobs for the community will be provided if the development is approved.
Opposing what he described as a ‘proposed monstrosity’, member of the public Barry Byham said, however much the applicant tries to justify it, the reality would be ‘unacceptable smells, noise, litter’.
A spokesperson for Northwood Parish Council told County Hall the development would be out of character with the current street scene and outlook of locally listed buildings.
Issues the public body raised included ‘unreasonable light pollution’, a risk of anti-social behaviour and increased traffic.
The council said:
“The rural siting of this application, near a school and serving a ward that is classed as being of high deprivation with reduced life expectancy linked to diet, goes against planning policy, public health, the well-being Strategy, and Cowes and Northwood Place Plan.”
Arguments made by the application’s supporters include ‘much-needed’ employment opportunities for all ages, the restaurant offering a convenient and affordable food option for residents, and the potential for concerns around traffic, noise and litter to be managed through planning conditions.
Planware’s previously submitted Supporting Statement said:
“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 site represents an appropriate location for a drive-thru restaurant, which will be well placed to offer refreshments to passing customers and those in the surrounding area.
“We have demonstrated throughout the application documentation how the scheme is considered sustainable development environmentally, socially and economically.”
