McDonald's has presented a revised proposal for its new drive-through restaurant near the centre of Lichfield, a city in Staffordshire, England.
The move comes after the initial application was turned down by Lichfield District Council in January 2024 due to concerns over potential noise and odour issues affecting nearby residents.
The updated submission details plans to demolish the former Central Co-op headquarters on Hermes Road and construct a new facility.
The new development will feature a drive-through, car parking, signage for food orders, landscaping and a children's play area.
The new planning report states: “The proposal represents a multi-million-pound investment by a national operator in Lichfield. The restaurant is expected to employ more than 120 full and part-time staff, which McDonald’s seeks to recruit from the local area.”
To further mitigate previous concerns, McDonald's has also proposed reducing the operating hours from a 24-hour service to 6am until midnight.
The site in question, Central House Business Support Centre, has been vacated as the former occupant, Central Co-op, relocated to new premises on Queen Street, off Walsall Road.
In response to the council's feedback, McDonald's has actively sought to involve the local community, organising public consultations to better understand and address the concerns of Lichfield residents.
The fate of the proposed drive-through now rests with Lichfield District Council's planning committee, which will review the revised application and reach a decision.
The fast food chain stated: “Residents and stakeholders were given the opportunity to provide their feedback regarding the proposals at all stages of public consultation via a number of different channels.
“An open day was carried out at the Guildhall in May which gave an opportunity for local residents to view and discuss the proposal with the team. There was a good turnout and many mixed reviews, with many young people interested in the potential for additional jobs and residents seeking clarification on the impacts on the road network and operation.”
