The golden arches are getting closer to welcoming customers at Newport’s new retail park, with the new McDonald’s drive-thru looking set to open next month.
The restaurant at Newport Retail Park, off St George’s Way, is now rapidly taking shape as work continues across the former Newport IW FC ground.
Island Echo understands that McDonald’s is targeting an opening during late September, although an exact opening date has not yet been announced. Other units will open later in the year, towards Christmas.
The drive-thru will give McDonald’s a second presence in Newport, with the existing walk-in restaurant in the town centre set to remain open. It will also become the fast-food giant’s second drive-thru on the Isle of Wight, joining its existing restaurant on Brading Road in Ryde.
As previously reported by Island Echo, the completed development will be home to Aldi, B&M, Wren Kitchens and Superdrug alongside McDonald’s and the Isle of Wight’s first Costa Coffee drive-thru.
A large sign displaying all 6 brands was erected earlier this month, when it was also revealed that the development is being marketed as ‘Newport Retail Park’, having previously been known as St George’s Retail Park.
While the new McDonald’s is nearing completion in Newport, the company’s wider expansion across the Isle of Wight has experienced mixed fortunes.
Plans for another drive-thru on Newport Road in Lake were given the green light by Isle of Wight councillors in July 2025, despite planning officers having recommended refusal. The Lake restaurant is planned for a brownfield site next to Morrisons and opposite Aldi, with proposals including a 309sqm restaurant, 37 parking spaces and 50 indoor covers.
However, an attempt to bring the golden arches to Cowes has proved considerably more controversial. Isle of Wight councillors unanimously rejected proposals for a new McDonald’s next to Three Gates Road at the end of July following significant opposition from nearby residents.
For now, attention turns back to Newport, where the opening of McDonald’s will represent another major milestone for the long-awaited retail park development.
Plans for the site were first submitted in 2018, with construction finally getting underway in late 2025 following years of delays, revised proposals and a legal challenge.
It’s exciting to watch the land being used for such a wonderful asset for nature and humankind! Just think where we would be without those “golden arches”. (sarcasm)