McDonald's granted permission for a second Mayo drive-thru

Planning permission has been granted for the development of a new McDonald’s restaurant in Claremorris.

The development will be the second McDonald’s restaurant in County Mayo, with the fast-food chain already operating in Castlebar.

The site is located on lands adjoining the Silverbridge Plaza and Shopping Centre on the Knock Road, where a single-storey drive-thru restaurant will be constructed.

Following engagement between the project’s town planners, the client and the applicant, it was decided to incorporate a two-lane operating system at the restaurant. The change was made in response to concerns regarding potential traffic impacts and access to the shopping centre’s existing access road.

The revised proposal was one of several issues considered since the planning application was first submitted to Mayo County Council in October of last year.

A number of objections were lodged with the council, with concerns raised over increased traffic, noise, loitering and potential impacts on residential parking.

Among those who objected to the development were Lisa Marie Barrett and Niall Barrett, who said they were already experiencing problems with loitering and anti-social behaviour in the area.

“We already have issues with loitering and anti-social behaviour with people drinking and smoking underneath the business part of the building,” they stated.

Despite the objections, the development also received strong support from Independent Councillor Richard Finn.

Speaking at a council meeting earlier this year, Cllr Finn said that “brand names” were needed in Claremorris and argued that the development would bring employment and further investment to Claremorris.

“If we don’t have progress, we won’t have jobs or any lifestyle at all in our towns,” he said.

Permission was granted for the major development subject to 13 conditions.