Plans for new McDonald’s drive-thru in Dumfries recommended for refusal

Plans for a new McDonald’s drive-thru in Dumfries have hit a roadblock as Dumfries and Galloway Council is recommending refusal of the proposal. The fast-food giant had been eyeing a £4 million drive-thru on Annan Road, but a report for the upcoming planning applications committee meeting suggests that there may be a more suitable site available for the eatery. Concerns over car access to the site, as opposed to foot traffic, and the potential negative visual impact of the development are cited as reasons for the recommended refusal.

Currently, McDonald’s operates a drive-thru on Lochside Road, but they had unveiled plans earlier this year to set up a new location near the Premier Inn on the outskirts of Dumfries. The proposed scheme includes the creation of 120 jobs, as well as nearly 50 parking spaces, electric vehicle charging bays, and recycling facilities. However, the report reveals that there have been eight objections to the plans, with concerns raised about environmental impact, increased traffic, and noise pollution.

While some local residents and businesses have objected to the new drive-thru, nearly 50 letters of support have been received, highlighting the potential economic benefits and job opportunities that the development could bring. The report points out that a more suitable location for the McDonald’s outlet might be the Peel Centre retail park, which recently received approval for a similar drive-thru development. This alternative site is believed to align better with planning policies encouraging local living and access to daily amenities within a reasonable distance from homes.

The case officer’s report emphasises that the Annan Road location may heavily rely on car visits and could lack support for local living, as it is not well-connected to public transport or cycle paths. Despite receiving no objections from Transport Scotland or the council’s roads team, and clearance from environmental health regarding litter concerns, the report argues that the visual impact of the proposed development could be detrimental due to the loss of natural vegetation on the site.

Ultimately, the recommendation is for the planning applications committee to refuse the plans for the new McDonald’s drive-thru when they convene. This decision reflects the council’s consideration of alternative sites that may better align with local living principles and minimise potential negative impacts on the environment and visual aesthetics of the area. If approved, the drive-thru could have brought economic benefits to the region, but balancing development with community needs and environmental considerations remains a key aspect of the decision-making process.