The Forest of Dean is set to welcome its very first KFC drive-thru after plans for a new restaurant on the outskirts of Coleford received approval from local councillors. The proposed site, just under half an acre on Perrygrove Road, will also feature two industrial units.
Following a previous rejection in 2023 for a combined KFC and Greggs drive-thru, the Forest of Dean District Council’s planning committee voted five to three in favor of the new proposal on May 12, aligning with officers’ recommendations.
The new KFC drive-thru will offer seating for 38 customers and include a dedicated area for home delivery order collections. The developers, NNA Ltd, anticipate creating around 35 jobs, comprising 12 full-time and 23 part-time positions, boosting local employment opportunities.
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Access to the site will be via Perrygrove Road, with approximately 45 parking spaces and two large order bays for temporary parking. Walkway improvements are also planned to ensure the development integrates sustainably with the surrounding area.
Despite these benefits, 13 residents voiced objections, citing concerns over littering, increased traffic congestion, anti-social behavior, and potential impacts on air quality and the privacy of nearby homes.
During the council debate, chairman Dave Wheeler acknowledged the complex nature of the decision. He highlighted concerns over whether the drive-thru might draw business away from the town center but noted that many empty shops are not suited for such developments. Wheeler also doubted that customers would travel from Monmouth to Coleford when a drive-thru already exists in Ross, asserting that convenience would likely steer them elsewhere.
He described community opinions as evenly split, with half supporting and half opposing the scheme. One resident’s comment stood out to him: “The Forest should be coming into the 21st century now,” reflecting a desire for modernization within the area.
Councillor Julia Gooch emphasized personal responsibility regarding health, diet, and littering habits, citing ongoing efforts by local individuals who consistently clean roadside litter. She acknowledged concerns but stressed the importance of educating society, especially children, about environmental responsibility.
Ultimately, the committee approved the plans with a vote of five to three, signaling a new chapter for the Forest of Dean with its first-ever KFC drive-thru.