A new computer-generated image shows how a “garish” McDonald’s drive-thru could be built next to historic ruins.
The plans for the 24-hour restaurant in Dover – which does not currently have a branch of the fast-food giant – have been met with huge backlash.
More than 240 objections have now been lodged against the scheme, which could be built on the former Dover Leisure Centre site close to the port.
But those against the project cite its proximity to the Grade II-listed ruins of St James’ Church, fearing the “eyesore” restaurant would blight the area.
The artist’s impression shows how close the drive-thru would be to the historic site, which was badly damaged in a Second World War bombing.
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The 12th century ruins were removed from Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register in 2022 following a conservation programme by Dover District Council (DDC).
But residents fear the 118-seater restaurant is planned for a “completely unsuitable for this location” on the corner of A20 Townwall Street and Woolcomber Street.
Objector Petra Matthew said: “This is such a depressing application. To position a McDonald’s in this location is completely inappropriate.
“The view to the castle would be drowned out by the garish colours of this ubiquitous fast-food outlet and the beautiful St James’ area blighted.”
McDonald’s bosses claim the finished building will be “appropriate for the area”.
They say “natural and neutral colours and materials will be used” to ensure the site “integrates easily with the surroundings”.
But Sheila Rosemary fears the scheme could damage the view of St James’ Church, much of which was built of Jurassic limestone from Caen in France.
“This is an iconic site, next to St James’ tidy ruin and adjacent to a conservation area,” she said.
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“It is so inappropriate for McDonald’s garish signage, cooking smells and 24/7 trading.”
A group called Friends of Castle Conservation Area Dover has launched a campaign against the proposals, and Kent Police has also raised concerns over traffic.
“The proposed planning application raises concerns around the current road network,” the force said in a statement.
“The entrance and exit is located on the A20 and there is the real potential for traffic to back out of the site onto the road causing congestion.
“There is a real possibility that HGVs could come across congestion at the proposed site thus adding to the delays in getting to the port.
“We welcome a discussion with the applicant or agent about site specific designing out crime.
“If the points above are not addressed, they can affect the development and local policing.”
If approved, the project will include 55 parking spaces – including 10 for electric car charging – and will create 120 jobs.
In planning documents submitted to DDC, bosses say the move “represents a multimillion-pound investment by a national operator in Dover”.
In a statement, a McDonald’s spokeswoman added: “We are excited about the opportunity to open a new restaurant in Dover and look forward to continuing our discussions with the council and local residents to address any concerns.”
Find out about planning applications that affect you by visiting the Public Notice Portal.
The chain previously had a restaurant in Biggin Street in Dover town centre, but it shut down in November 2017 and is currently empty.
The closure came almost exactly on the 30th anniversary of its opening in autumn 1987.
The next nearest McDonald’s is currently on the A2 in Whitfield, four miles away.
Dover Leisure Centre had stood on the site for four decades before it was torn down in 2020. It was quickly replaced by a new £26 million facility in Whitfield.
A decision on the application will be made by planning officers at DDC.
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