McDonalds Latest - Evening Advertiser 07/06/02

THE developer behind plans for a strip of takeaways in Abbey Meads has gone back to the drawing board after protests from residents and Swindon Council.

Representatives from Henry Davidson Develop-ments Ltd met with the main objectors last week and are continuing discussions with council planners.

The council is concerned that the proposal to build a drive-through McDonald's and KFC, Domino's Pizza parlour and Blockbuster Video store on a small plot of land off Pennine Way is too intensive for the residential area.

It is understood that the developer is now looking at proposing just three units, dropping the plans for the video shop.

It intends to submit an amendment to its planning application in the next few weeks, but whether the changes will be acceptable to the council or residents is still in doubt.

The Advertiser told last month how the plans have whipped up a storm of protest in the area, with residents worried that the takeaways will cause nasty smells, heavy traffic problems, litter, noise and light pollution.

A 254-name petition has been collected, but more concrete opposition will be needed to stop it going ahead.

The site was granted outline planning permission 11 years ago for commercial use ­ a decision that now limits the powers of councillors to reject the scheme.

Henry Davidson's development director, Andy Wendler, today insisted the company was not out to upset anyone. He said:

"We sat down last week with some of the residents and councillors and listened to what they had to say. We agreed that we would go away and see what we can do to address their fears . We are in a period of dialogue with planners and residents to try to achieve a scheme that is more acceptable to all parties. We are doing our level best to get to a point where everyone is happy."

Abbey Meads councillor, Justin Tomlinson (Conservative), has been involved in the protest.

"I am pleased the developer is listening to residents' concerns, but I remain sceptical about the scheme.  I'm not convinced either party is any closer yet to getting what they want. My understanding is that the developer is going ahead with plans for three units, but the council planners feel there should be just two."

The three takeaway companies last month told the Advertiser that they are happy to talk to anyone about the plans.

Resident Tracy Goodwin, 30, of Westhighland Road, is leading the campaign. She said:

"I'm glad the meeting took place but disappointed that our worst fears about the smells, traffic and light pollution have been confirmed. But the fight is not over yet."

Article taken from, 'The Evening Advertiser' - 07/06/02