Fast food outlet plan rejected over health fears

Planners say the drive-thru would negatively affect the retail park's appearance

Plans for a drive-thru Burger King have been rejected because of concerns about the impact on public health.

The scheme would have seen the fast food restaurant built at the southern end of the Tesco site on Wombwell Lane in Barnsley.

However, Barnsley Council officers said the site was less than 1,314 ft (400m) from a primary school and was in an area where childhood obesity levels were already too high.

Local planning guidelines restrict the number of hot food takeaways that can be built in some areas, to help promote healthier lifestyles.

The application outlined plans for a 2,497 sq ft (232 sq m) restaurant with associated landscaping, parking, and refuse facilities, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

In addition to health concerns, planners criticised the design of the building, which they said was "over-dominating".

Officers also warned that noise, fumes and vibration from vehicles queuing could negatively affect the retail park's appearance and have an impact on nearby residents.

The applicant has six months to appeal the council's decision.

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