ALMOST 120 residents have objected to plans to open a fifth McDonald’s restaurant in Colchester.

Schroder UK Real Estate Fund has applied for planning permission to create a new fast food restaurant and drive-thru at the Turner Rise Retail Park, in Petrolea Close, Colchester.

The drive-thru would be located between PizzaHut and Go Outdoors, creating 65 new jobs.

But the plans have proved controversial amongst residents, with 119 people submitting objections online.

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The main issues raised by residents are the increase in traffic around North Station, which is already a congestion hotspot, and the affect on residents’ health.

Gazette:

  • The Turner Rise Retail Park. Picture: From the planning application

One resident said: “I live close to the Turner Rise park and know first hand of the traffic issues.

“The new McDonald’s will increase traffic on already busy roads and junctions hence my objection.

“There are already two McDonald’s nearby - one at Leisure World and another at junction 28 of the A12 - there is no need for more.”

Another added: “It will increase traffic in the area when there is already significant issues with traffic during the rush hour.

“This will impact the station, causing long delays.

“Colchester Council should commit to keep the borough healthy during these difficult times and opening another fast food restaurant does not appear to be in residents’ interests when there are other McDonald’s nearby.”

Some residents have also raised concerns about antisocial behaviour at the retail park.

One said: “There are antisocial problems with people meeting in the area after units close.

“It will be harder to police this with another restaurant on the site, providing an excuse to be there.”

Gazette:

  • The proposals for the McDonald's restaurant and drive-thru

Myland Community Council has also objected to the new restaurant saying a new drive-thru was “inconsistent” with promoting sustainable transport use.

It added: “The council has concerns regarding the health of residents with the provision of another fast food restaurant and the litter problems which have been seen at similar outlets.”

Colchester Council will have the final say on the plans.