MORE than 1,000 people have signed a petition campaigning against plans for a McDonalds in Bude.

At the start of April, pre-application plans were submitted for a new McDonalds restaurant situated on Binhamy Retail Park in the coastal town (PA25/00281/PREAPP).

However, the plans have raised concerns among locals, with some worried that the introduction of the chain may ruin the ‘unspoilt charm’ of the town.

Pre-application advice requests see would-be developers submit often outline proposals to a local authority to ascertain whether it is likely to gain support or not prior to submitting a planning application.

It is not in itself a planning application but is often used to gauge the viability of proposals.

In its pre-application letter, Lichfields, which is representing McDonalds, explained: “Access is via Sandpiper Road, which connects to Stratton Road (A3072) via a roundabout to the north west. There is a pedestrian access through the northern boundary of the site which crosses across the site to reach B&M.

“The site area consists of 54 surface car parking spaces within the wider retail car park. It includes related 90-minute parking restrictions.

“The proposal would be in general accordance with the retail use of the site and consistent with nearby hot food takeaway uses that have been previously deemed acceptable. It is not considered to be of sufficient scale to have a detrimental effect on the viability of Bude’s town centre.”

However, more than 1,100 signatures have been made on a petition aiming to ‘prevent McDonald’s from establishing a franchise in Bude.’

The petition, established by a local NHS worker, explained: “Slowly we've observed the encroachment of national chains into our town. Each establishment altering the town's distinctive culture. Now, we have the proposed establishment of a McDonald's franchise in Bude.

“The introduction of large fast-food chain like McDonald's not only affects the town's unique appeal, but also threatens our deep-rooted culture of health-conscious living. In a time where obesity is an alarming public health issue in the UK, with 64 per cent of adults classed as being overweight or obese in 2019 (Health Survey for England, NHS Digital), we should be promoting healthier food alternatives. As a community, we escape the lure of these chains by heading to cities or towns when we choose, not having it imposed onto our doorsteps.

“Moreover, the invasion of these chains often triggers a downward spiral for small towns, overshadowing local establishments and jeopardising the economic autonomy of local businesses. Our community thrives on the hard work of local businesses - they are the lifeblood of the high street and the backbone of our economy.

“This is a plea for preserving the unspoilt charm of Bude. It's about standing against the expansion of a fast-food giant, prioritising the health of our community, and championing our local businesses. It's about asserting that Bude is our town.”

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