Plans to establish the Forest of Dean’s first KFC drive-thru in Coleford have been delayed. The Forest of Dean District Council was scheduled to review the application on April 14, but the proposal was deferred at the applicant’s request.
The site, located on just under half an acre off Perrygrove Road, includes plans not only for the KFC restaurant but also two industrial units. The fast-food outlet is designed to seat 38 customers and feature a dedicated area for home delivery order collection.
Applicants NNA Ltd highlight that the new KFC would create approximately 35 jobs, including 12 full-time and 23 part-time positions, offering a boost to the local employment market. The development would provide around 45 parking spaces, two large order bays for temporary parking, and improved walkways to ensure sustainability and integration into the community.
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Despite these benefits, the proposals faced opposition from 13 residents concerned about potential litter, anti-social behaviour, increased traffic congestion, air pollution, odour issues, and loss of privacy for nearby homes.
Forest of Dean council officers had recommended approving the scheme, but Development Manager Clive Reynolds reported that questions raised by the site inspection panel, particularly relating to highway safety and access, prompted further review. The applicant and the highway authority are working together to address these matters.
As a result, the application will not be debated until these issues are resolved, with hopes to revisit the plans next month. Council Chairman Dave Wheeler expressed regret to attendees for the delay but emphasized the need for thorough consideration.