Sandwell Council's planning committee has deferred a decision on a proposed McDonald's drive-thru in Cradley Heath, following widespread objections over potential traffic 'chaos' on nearby 'rat run' roads.
Application details and objections
The fast food giant plans to demolish the Cradley Kawasaki showroom and workshop in St Anne's Road to build a new restaurant with a drive-thru, creating 70 full-time jobs and operating from 6am to midnight. The proposal includes a 30-space car park and a waiting area for delivery drivers.
At the July 29 committee meeting, councillors opted to visit the site before voting, after hearing 54 formal objections and a 92-signature petition. Objectors at the meeting also presented another petition with over 650 signatures, bringing the total to more than 750.
Residents' concerns
Residents argue the drive-thru would cause 'chaos' on Foxoak Street and surrounding roads, which are already congested. They also cited potential increases in noise, traffic, litter, and anti-social behaviour.
However, the council received 19 supportive responses, highlighting job creation and potential regeneration of the area.
Planning officers' recommendation
Despite the objections, planning officers had recommended approval, noting that while the site is allocated for residential use in the development plan, the proposal 'overcomes all other material considerations' and the harm would be limited by restricted opening hours. They concluded that 'the economic investment and job creation outweighs the policy contraventions'.
The application argues the site has been marketed for residential use for over 12 months without meaningful interest, rendering it unviable for housing.
Next steps
The committee will reconvene after the site visit to make a final decision. The outcome will be closely watched by both supporters and opponents.
