McDonald's has submitted formal plans to open a new restaurant and drive thru in Ystrad Mynach, Caerphilly borough, after abandoning earlier proposals for a branch in the neighbouring village of Maesycwmmer.
The original Maesycwmmer plans drew a significant number of objections, with residents and local politicians concerned about access and road safety. The company has now shifted its focus to a site off Twyn Road, to the south of the Valley Greyhound stadium.
Jobs and Facilities Proposed
If approved, agents at Lichfields said up to 135 jobs could be created at the restaurant. The Ystrad Mynach site would include 44 car parking spaces, electric vehicle charging bays and bike storage.
In a design statement, Lichfields added that the proposed site also "benefits from a good level of walking, cycling and public transport accessibility".
Mixed Local Response
A pre-planning consultation held in September attracted more than 500 responses, with 59% supporting the proposal and the rest opposing it.
Critics raised concerns about litter management, the impact on the road network, flood risk and the loss of green space. Supporters, according to a report by Lichfields, thought the restaurant would improve local choice and viewed the plans for a children's play space positively, also noting job opportunities and economic benefits.
Agent Response and Next Steps
The agents said "suitable" bins would be provided and emptied regularly each day, and assessed that the local road network "would continue to operate efficiently" if the McDonald's opens.
They added the development was not found to increase local flood risk, and the plans included "appropriate planting" to mitigate the loss of green space. The application is currently out for consultation.
