The Forest of Dean could soon welcome its very first KFC drive-thru, with plans for a new restaurant on the outskirts of Coleford set to be reviewed by the Forest of Dean District Council on April 14. The proposed site on Perrygrove Road, just under half an acre in size, would also include two industrial units.
This fresh application follows a previously rejected scheme in 2023 that combined KFC and Greggs outlets. If approved, the new KFC would feature seating for 38 customers and a designated home delivery order collection point, alongside 45 parking spaces and two large order bays for temporary parking.
Applicants NNA Ltd emphasize the economic benefits, projecting the creation of 35 jobs—12 full-time and 23 part-time roles—aimed at boosting local employment. They also highlight planned improvements to pedestrian walkways to ensure the development is sustainable and well-integrated into the community.
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Currently, Forest of Dean residents must travel to nearby towns such as Ross-on-Wye, Gloucester, or Tewkesbury to access KFC outlets. While some welcome the convenience, the proposal has attracted objections from local residents worried about its potential impact.
Thirteen residents have voiced concerns over anticipated littering, increased traffic congestion, and anti-social behavior. Some fear the development could contribute to air pollution, unpleasant odors, and a loss of privacy for nearby homes and gardens.
Among the objectors, Stephen McAuliffe expressed worries in a formal objection, stating, “There is already an issue with waste from existing fast food outlets locally and rubbish being discarded from vehicle windows throughout the forest, harming the area’s natural beauty. Adding a KFC drive-thru will only worsen the roadside litter problem.”
He also cautioned against the potential for the development to become a gathering spot for disruptive behavior: “It could attract groups of young people engaging in littering, abusive behavior, car revving, and even drug use. Rather than encouraging healthy lifestyles, increasing access to affordable junk food may exacerbate existing health challenges in the area.”
In response, the applicants assert their plans meet all relevant planning policies. Consultants involved in the application state, “The development offers economic benefits through job creation, environmental enhancements achieving a 10% biodiversity net gain, and sustainable access via well-designed transport provisions for vehicles and pedestrians. The proposal is justified and would benefit the town of Coleford and surrounding villages.”
Council officers have recommended granting permission under delegated powers, concluding the project is sustainable, acceptable in planning terms, and that its benefits outweigh any harms.