The opening date for a new McDonald's in Wirral was confirmed today.
The new McDonald's will be located at the Junction One retail park in Bidston Moss in Wirral. It is expected to open by the beginning of August 2023 with a promise of up to 65 jobs.
Plans were approved by Wirral Council in May 2022 that will see the new restaurant provide room for 97 customers inside and 17 parking spaces. Access for those walking and cycling to the restaurant will also be created.
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The plans were passed despite people predicting “pandemonium” on the roads if the fast food restaurant went ahead. A total of 11 people objected with eight in support to the application.
A change to the original plans from an approved playframe to outdoor tables, chairs and benches is currently being considered by Wirral Council and if approved, McDonald's said work would begin with the new restaurant expected to open at the end of July.
McDonald's said the fast food chain will provide 65 jobs in the area and in the planning application for the new restaurant, the company said it contributed £9.74m to the Wirral economy.
Speaking after the plans were submitted in December 2021, Adam Brand, senior acquisitions surveyor at McDonald’s, said: “This site represents a multi-million pound investment in Bidston Moss and will deliver up to 65 new, local jobs.
“We know how well-connected this location is, being just off Junction 1 of the M53, and our restaurant will be ideally placed to serve local people and visitors alike. We are confident this detailed proposal will provide added competition and choice for customers whilst being mindful and considerate of our neighbours and residents in Bidston Moss.”
However plenty criticised the plans after they were announced. Ian Maddocks said: “Sort the entrance and exit to the retail park first, it's a nightmare. Surprised nothing has ever been done, it's so bad to get into only one way to get in.”
Emma Morris added: "Wouldn’t say it’s the best place to put one with how bad that car park is already.”
Some criticised the plans for encouraging fast food eating too but others said the restaurant would bring investment into the area.
In response to traffic concerns the new restaurant may create in the local area, the application for the drive-thru was supported by a "satisfactory" transport assessment "and show that the development traffic will have minimal impact."
According to a council report, McDonald's said employees would regularly carry out litter picks in the area and litter bins would be provided to manage litter in the area.
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