Plans for a new McDonald’s drive-thru in Cradley Heath have been approved by Sandwell Council’s planning committee despite local concerns about traffic congestion, noise, and other disturbances. The fast-food chain intends to replace the Cradley Kawasaki showroom and workshop on St Anne’s Road with a McDonald’s restaurant featuring a drive-thru and a 30-space car park.
The proposal faced significant opposition from residents, with 54 formal objections and petitions bearing 750 signatures presented to the council. Critics expressed fears that the new drive-thru would exacerbate traffic problems, particularly around Foxoak Street, a known local route often referred to as a ‘rat run’. Concerns were also raised about potential increases in noise, litter, and anti-social behaviour in the surrounding area.
Councillors delayed the initial decision in July to allow for a site visit and further consideration of traffic and parking issues. At the subsequent meeting on 16 September, Councillor Connor Horton voiced apprehension that traffic could result in “carnage” on St Anne’s Road during peak times.
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In response to these concerns, Councillor Tim Hordley proposed approving the development provided the drive-thru was reduced to a single lane and positioned as far from nearby residences as possible to minimise noise impact. However, representatives from McDonald’s stated that the current layout was final and that the committee would require substantial evidence to reject the scheme based on such modifications.
Ultimately, the planning committee approved the application by seven votes to two, placing conditions on the development. These included the installation of a yellow box junction at the drive-thru entrance to help manage traffic flow and acoustic fencing to mitigate noise. Additionally, McDonald’s agreed to limit operating hours to 6am to 11pm, reduced from the initially proposed midnight closing time.
The plans also include a waiting area dedicated to delivery drivers, which is expected to improve logistics and reduce congestion. McDonald’s has committed to creating 70 full-time jobs as part of the development.
Despite the site’s allocation for residential development in the local plan, planning officers recommended approval, citing limited harm from the restricted opening hours and significant economic benefits from the investment and job creation. A report highlighted that the site has failed to attract residential development interest over more than a decade, rendering previous plans financially unviable. The vendor reportedly attempted to market the site for residential use for over 12 months without success.
Sandwell Council’s decision reflects a balance between addressing community concerns and supporting local economic development, with conditions intended to mitigate the most pressing issues raised by residents and councillors alike.