Council to make decision on controversial Buffet Island McDonald’s in Great Barr

Planning officers have recommended members grant approval for the development – which received over 113 objections – subject to conditions.

The application was called in to be discussed at the planning committee by Councillor Adrian Andrew on the grounds of the significant public interest.

During the public consultation, some of the concerns shared within the objections 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’.

Another comment from a resident in support of the development said: “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.”

When consulting with authorities, Public Health objected to the development. It said: “The potential economic benefits are acknowledged and important. However, economic benefits would also likely feature with alternative uses of the site, and it is important to understand how the weighing up of the economic benefit vs public health dis-benefit is undertaken in this case.

“Importantly, healthy communities are a prerequisite for growing our economy. Whilst McDonald’s do offer healthier alternatives, it is important to consider sales, and also the overall impact of takeaways on health.

“The proximity to a number of local schools is important. School children and families are more likely to access a takeaway regularly for convenience/cost rather than a public house or restaurant.”

If the development is approved, McDonald’s stated that the new establishment will create 120 full-time and part-time jobs in the area.

In addition to the restaurant, the facility will feature 46 car parking spaces, a bike rack for up to 10 bicycles, an outdoor children’s play area, and electric vehicle charging stations.

McDonald’s also mentioned that the site previously operated as a Chinese restaurant for approximately 15 years until its closure in 2020. Prior to that, it was a well-known community pub named Schofields and later The Trees.

In support of their recommendation for approval, the planning officers stated: “It has been demonstrated that the proposed development is of an acceptable overall appearance, would not result in harm to the natural or built environment.

“On balance, it is considered the proposal would not result in an undue impact upon the amenity of occupiers. The proposal would not result in harm to the safety or operation of the highway network subject to the conditions as set out.

“The recommended planning conditions are considered necessary to make the application acceptable, and to meet the governments tests contained within the National Planning Policy Framework. On the above basis, on balance, the proposal is considered to meet the requirements of the Development Plan, and the National Planning Policy Framework. Taking into account the above factors it is considered that the application should be recommended for approval.”

The planning committee takes place at 5.30pm tonight, Thursday, July 25, in the Council House on Lichfield Street. To live stream the meeting, click here.