McDonald's long-awaited new restaurant has opened its doors to customer in Oswestry this morning (August 31).

The fast food chain has opened its new eatery on the former Smithfield livestock market site off Shrewsbury Road.

Anticipation had been building for a while, and a spokesperson said: ““We are delighted to have opened our new Oswestry, Shrewsbury Road restaurant today, which has created over 80 full and part time jobs, and look forward to serving the local community.”

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The new McDonald’s includes a 100-seat restaurant and a drive-through, as well as a 45-space car park, with bicycle stands.

Additionally, families can look forward to a children's play area, ensuring a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages.

Jenny Evans and her three children were the first customers and were really excited for the new fast-food to open as they live just across the street.

She said: “We were the first one through the doors and it was wonderful.

“They greeted us in such a welcoming way, and all the staff were super friendly.

“The inside is immaculate and I think it’s the best McDonald’s we have been to.”

Border Counties Advertizer: The new McDonald's on the former Smithfield livestock market site off Shrewsbury Road. The new McDonald's on the former Smithfield livestock market site off Shrewsbury Road. (Image: Ana Cazan)

Lily Evans, Jenny’s daughter, said she also like the new restaurant and especially the play area.

The mother of three believes the new restaurant introduces job opportunities in the area.

“I think it’s brilliant” she added “It brings a lot of on-foot customers because it’s in such a good location, and also lots of jobs.”

The plans for this new eatery were approved in 2021 but were met with some concerns from local people before the decision was made.

Residents were worried that littering will become a problem in the future, but Shropshire Council said at the time that they were “satisfied” with their waste management plans.

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Speaking about recycling Jenny said it’s up to the customers to recycle and be tidy.

She continued: “I understand the concerns of the residents and I also live locally but I don’t have any worries.

“I think McDonald’s has a duty of care when it comes to these things.

“And I think they do a good job with it; and they have plenty of bins to promote that.”

The new restaurant will be open 24 hours a day for seven days a week.