Plans for new McDonalds in North Leeds to be blocked by the council
Fears were raised over road safety and public health after McDonald’s sought permission to knock down the Old Red Lion in Whinmoor.
The planned demolition of a former pub to make way for a fast food outlet is set to be blocked by the council.
Fears were raised over road safety and public health after McDonald’s sought permission to knock down the Old Red Lion in Whinmoor.
The company would build a drive-through at the site of the pub and a former taxi rank if planning permission was granted.
Councillors are expected to refuse the application at a hearing on Thursday (April 24).
A report to the meeting said the outlet would be within walking distance of two primary schools. Cars turning into the site would also increase traffic congestion on York Road.
The report said: “Such congestion would impact on the free flow of traffic and increase the risk of collisions, resulting in unsafe operation of the highway.”
The council’s public health team lodged a formal objection, saying the take-away would fail to promote healthy lifestyles.
Eight public objections were received by Leeds City Council, along with 44 letters of support.
Concerns included the risk of anti-social behaviour and littering.
One objector wrote: “This proposal would encourage people to loiter around the area.”
The council’s North and East plans panel will consider the application at the request of Labour ward councillor Jess Lennox.
The report said plans for the site had been revised after a similar proposal was refused permission last year.