PLANS for a new McDonald’s restaurant in Oswestry have been approved.

The fast food giant says 65 jobs will be created by the opening of the 100-seater restaurant and drive-through, set to be built on part of the former Smithfield livestock market site off Shrewsbury Road.

Concerns were raised by residents of the town over littering and the impact the arrival of the multinational chain could have on existing take-away businesses.

But Shropshire Council planning officers said they were satisfied with the company’s waste management schemes and said the proposals would bring a welcome employment boost to Oswestry, with an estimated 30 full time and 35 part time positions.

The plans include a 45-space car park, bicycle stands and a children’s play area.

A report by case officer Melanie Williams says: “Overall it is considered that the proposed development is appropriate and acceptable in this location and it will provide an additional service and facility together with an employment opportunity within the town.

“The scheme is of a scale and design that will blend with its surroundings particularly given the large commercial developments on land nearby and retail unit adjacent the site.

“While the proposal may impact on residential amenities of the area, these will be to an acceptable level.”

The report adds that “a sensitive landscaping scheme” was a key consideration due to the site’s location at one of the gateways into the town. It says the proposed planting, building materials and signage the scheme will allow the restaurant to “sit well within the local vernacular and match the adjacent Morrisons site”.

Addressing the litter concerns, the report says: “The company operates a policy of litter patrols whereby employees not only pick up any McDonald’s packaging discarded within a 100 metre radius but also any other litter discarded within this area.

“Litter bins are provided outside all restaurants, and packaging carries anti-littering symbols to encourage customers to dispose of litter responsibly.

“Anti-littering signage is displayed within restaurants and car parks, and support is given to Keep Britain Tidy.”

Oswestry Town Council made neutral representations, while there were nine objections and 11 letters of support from members of the public.