Bradley Stoke residents have had their say on McDonald's and Starbucks opening 24-hour drive-thrus at Willow Brook shopping centre.
This week it was confirmed that work on the new food outlets will start in early February and finish in August.
It comes after a developer won planning permission at appeal two years ago, despite fierce opposition from some residents and councillors.
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South Gloucestershire Council rejected plans for a McDonald's and Starbucks at Willow Brook in 2019, on the grounds that they would increase noise, litter and traffic problems.
But developer Brookmaker Limited Partnership lodged an appeal, and in January 2020 a planning inspector found there was no good reason to refuse the application.
Planning permission was granted, and now, two years on, work is about to start on the new outlets.
Andy Wynn, Centre Manager at Willow Brook, said: “It has been a long road to get to this point, with further delays caused by Covid-19.
"However, we are all excited to see work finally get underway and look forward to seeing customers enjoying both new units in August.”
BristolLive visited Willow Brook shopping centre to ask locals their thoughts on the new food outlets opening - and not everyone was so optimistic.
Anita, who lives opposite Willow Brook shopping centre, said: “It’s a no, no. It’s awful.
“We’ve already got takeaways here and we don’t need another. We don’t need more rubbish and litter.
“There’s not a lot we can do now. But it’s a real shame we weren’t listened to in the first place.”
Another resident, who didn’t wish to be named, said: “I feel sorry for the people living behind it, but I don’t think it will affect me too much.
“It would be nice not to have to go all the way [to Cribbs Causeway and Filton].
“But I wouldn’t like it if I was living close.”
Jenny from Winterbourne added: “[I'm a] bit peeved that it’s taking up space in the car park. Plus we’ve already got a Greggs and a KFC here.
“I feel sorry for the people living next to it.”
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The Starbucks unit is expected to employ the equivalent of 20 full-time staff, with the McDonald's employing more than 65 full and part-time staff.
In addition to the fast food outlets, the development will also see two non-food units built.
People have also been having their say about the new restaurants on Facebook.
Sonia said: “Wonderful! It’s about time. We need another supermarket too.”
“Rather have a Burger King than a McDonalds,” Ian wrote.
Rebeka commented: “Makes me love that place even more.”
Members of Bradley Stoke town council and South Gloucestershire Council representing Bradley Stoke have also been approached for comment.
How do you feel about a McDonald's and Starbucks opening at Willow Brook? Leave a comment below or email beth.cruse@reachplc.com
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