4:19pm Sunday 22nd November 2009
By Chris Hopper
A PLAN to build a new KFC fast food restaurant in Burnley just yards from a McDonald’s could be given the go ahead this week.
The fried chicken giant wants to open its doors in Trafalgar Street, close to where its rival already has an outlet.
It raises the possibility of fast food wars breaking out between the two US chains as they battle for diners - and late-night revellers - in the area.
A transport survey has already backed the scheme and it has also been supported by a councillor.
Tony Lambert, whose Trinity ward includes the site, said: “I have no problem whatsoever about these plans.
“There is very little housing within the immediate vicinity of that area and I have not had a single complaint from a resident.
“There is already a McDonald’s there and improvements to the access were improved when that was built.
“KFC seems to be quite popular and it is better than the site being derelict.”
The move by KFC comes after car rental firm Enterprise earlier this year filled the former Car Village showroom, which closed several years ago.
However, if plans are approved by Burnley Council’s development control committee on Thursday, a new building would be put up to house KFC.
KFC said it could create 30 new jobs. The fast food firm already has a Burnley store in Colne Road.
If given the go ahead, the site would include 14 parking spaces and open from 10am to 11pm or midnight every day.
KFC UK managing director Martin Shuker said: “There aren’t many companies who can be so positive in this challenging environment so we are delighted to be able to announce this significant investment.”
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