Plans to open a new McDonald’s restaurant in Cheltenham until midnight have triggered strong community opposition, with concerns over loitering, traffic congestion, and a potential rise in crime. The fast food giant aims to establish its third Cheltenham outlet at the former TGI Friday’s location, 374 Gloucester Road, adjacent to the Premier Inn.
Currently, Cheltenham hosts two McDonald’s venues: one in the town centre on High Street and a drive-through on Tewkesbury Road at Kingsditch Retail Park. The latest application to Cheltenham Borough Council seeks permission for operating hours from 6am to midnight daily, with late-night food and drink service specifically between 11pm and midnight.
The proposal has drawn at least 25 formal objections, including from County Councillor David Willingham, the mayor of Cheltenham. Willingham highlighted the challenge in opposing due to limited direct evidence of issues at this specific site but pointed to concerns based on similar incidents nationwide. “Media reports of problems at other McDonald’s locations suggest potential risks here,” he said, referencing a recent ban on unaccompanied under-18s in a Scottish McDonald’s amid anti-social behaviour.
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Local residents emphasize the site’s residential nature and proximity to children’s homes. One Gloucester Road resident noted that the former TGI Friday’s closed by 10pm, and other McDonald’s branches in Cheltenham close by 11pm. “Extending hours to midnight will likely increase noise, traffic, and disturbance,” they warned. Another objector expressed worries about noise from customers, idling vehicles, and delivery trucks disrupting the neighbourhood, especially during warm nights.
Concerns about an uptick in crime and loitering around late-night fast food outlets featured prominently among objections. In response, McDonald’s representatives assured that they have robust security measures in place, including CCTV and active collaboration with local police. They underlined that the restaurant does not serve alcohol or use glass containers, and takes the safety of all customers, including unaccompanied minors, very seriously.
“We recognize our responsibility to the community in extending opening hours and are committed to protecting staff and customers from harm,” McDonald’s stated. The company reiterated its intent to work closely with law enforcement to minimize any potential crime or disorder.
The licensing sub-committee is scheduled to review the application on May 27, where the final decision on the proposed late-night opening will be made.