Shelf: Villagers being asked for views on planned McDonald's drive through in Yorkshire

Burger giant McDonald’s Restaurants Ltd wants to open the restaurant, with associated access, servicing, car parking and other works including landscaping, on land next to Sun Wood Service Station at Halifax Road, Shelf – the former Clough Mill site.

The plans were first submitted to Calderdale Council in November 2024, but have not yet been determined.

According to the council’s planning portal, consultation on the proposals is open again and running until June 18, with some revisions being made to the proposals and more information about them which had been requested.

Highways officers have aid there is still some clarification about deliveries they require.

The council is also seeking, as part of a legal agreement, a contribution of £65,000 to be secured to contribute towards improving the nearby Stone Chair roundabout, a major junction.

After that, it will consider the application.

People who have commented on the proposals, which McDonalds says will create 90 jobs, have been divided on the prospect.

Objectors include former council cabinet member for public health, Tim Swift, who says he supports objections from directors of public health for Calderdale and Bradford, Debs Harkins and Rose Dunlop.

These set out the concerns over levels of obesity, risks from increased availability of food which is high in fat, salt and sugar, and specific risks from the location close to a primary school and a bus stop extensively used by pupils attending a number of secondary schools, he said.

McDonalds have responded in a briefing note from consultants Lichfields which argues there is no basis upon which to conclude that either the proposals would have a significant adverse effect on health, quality of life and well-being, or that the proposals are in conflict with the relevant planning policies.

They argue the ward in which the application site is located (Northowram and Shelf) has lower childhood obesity rates than the Calderdale and England averages, indicating there are no specific underlying health concerns in the local area which should be a material consideration in the determination of the planning application and add McDonald’s “takes a responsible approach to offering balanced nutritional options and promoting active lifestyles through their support to community and grass roots football.”

Recent comments from members of the public on the planning portal include a mixture of comments both for and against the plans.

Recent objections include concerns about traffic impact, including on the roundabout, anti-social behaviour and littering which one fears might attract vermin.

“The proposal would introduce increased noise from vehicle movements, engines idling, car doors, and customer activity throughout the day and evening,” said one objector.

“Fast-food outlets often generate significant amounts of litter, which can spread beyond the site boundary.

“A drive-thru operating into the evening or night may attract gatherings of vehicles and customers outside normal business hours.

“This has the potential to increase noise disturbance and anti-social behaviour, adversely affecting nearby residents and the wider community.”

Another says: “We have more than enough McDonald’s facilities within this area as well as other fast food giants like KFC, Pizza Hut and now Taco Bell. We do not need another.”

Recent supporting comments include one which says: “A new McDonald’s would improve local food and drink choices.

“A new McDonald’s restaurant at this location would be positive for Shelf and I hope that Calderdale Council is able to support this application.”

McDonalds on the company’s website encourage people to use a link there to express support for the plans.

The company argues it is keen to invest in Shelf and benefits would include creating 90 new jobs, and it also has an apprenticeship programme.

Responding to concerns about littering and resultant potential problems, the company has “at least” three daily litter picks at sites like this, says the company.

McDonalds say it expects to pay about £57,000 in business rates each year to the council.