Decision on McDonald's plan on former Buffet Island site delayed

A decision to convert a former popular Great Barr restaurant into a new McDonald's has been delayed. Members of Walsall Council's planning committee were due to decide on the fast food giant's bid to create a drive-thru restaurant on the vacant Buffet Island site in Queslett Road on Thursday (June 20).

But, at the 11th hour it was announced the item would be deferred until a later date. Committee chairman Councillor Mark Statham said the decision to delay the discussion was due to "lobbying" which could have some influence which needed to be considered by planning officers.

Officers had recommended members grant approval for the development subject to conditions and a travel plan being agreed. But a report to the committee said the plan has attracted strong opposition with 110 individual objections being registered during the consultation phase.

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Concerns included 'an increase in rubbish and litter, anti-social behaviour, traffic congestions, pedestrian safety, accidents, noise nuisance, smells, increase in crime, air quality, vermin and a McDonald's already being open nearby'.

But the proposal has attracted some support with one resident saying: "This former buffet island site is an absolute disgrace to this community. It has been left to rot, is in a disgusting state of disrepair and is a constant attraction for trouble, vandals, and general unpleasant behaviour, for which the police are often necessary.

"The council have a duty of care to the people of Pheasey to stop this and improve this huge site for local residents, and I believe McDonald's would in part do this by improving the current site and continuing to be responsible for its upkeep."

The application was 'called in' by Councillor Adrian Andrew on the grounds of the significant public interest which requires consideration. If the application is eventually granted, McDonald's said the new facility will represent a multi-million investment, whilst bringing 120 full and part-time jobs to the area.

As well as the restaurant itself, there will also be 46 car parking spaces, a bike stand for up to 10 cycles, a children's play area and electric charging points. McDonald's said the venue operated as a Chinese restaurant for around 15 years before closing in 2020. Historically, it operated as a popular community pub known as Schofields and then The Trees.