Last English county without McDonalds prepares for controversial vote on Golden Arches

Duchess of Rutland says local branch should sell ‘pheasant nuggets’

The only English county without a McDonald’s is set to vote on a controversial proposal to bring a branch to the rural community.

A planning application for a drive-thru in Rutland has been recommended for approval, despite residents claiming it could be an eyesore, harm local trade and attract anti-social behaviour.

Some complained it could ruin the “brand” of the tiny county, which is known for its picturesque countryside and was named the second best place to live in the UK last year.

The Duchess of Rutland told Good Morning Britain said she did not agree with plans for the McDonald’s, saying the chain should do more to combat litter in the community and promote local food.

She suggested “pheasant nuggets” and “pheasant burgers” could help sway her support for the drive-thru just outside Oakham.

A council report said there have been over 50 formal objections to the plans – compared to 23 representations in support – with the majority concerned with increased rubbish in the area.

A McDonald's spokesperson said: "We are also absolutely committed to protecting the environment, and the new restaurant would be focused on reducing litter in Oakham – our restaurants conduct three litter picks a day, picking up all rubbish, not just McDonald’s packaging.”

People also cited concerns about "plastic pollution and recyclable packaging" and the impact on local pubs and restaurants.

Councillors will discuss the overall positive review of the application on Tuesday evening.

The report said the “natural and neutral colours and materials" in the proposed design "would not have an adverse impact on the surrounding area", and that over 60 new jobs would be created for the community.

The “wasteland” site off Lands End Way – which has been chosen for the development – was also called an “appropriate location for a drive-thru restaurant”.

McDonald's said they chose the out-of-town location "to respect the unique character" of Oakland, whose website calls it "a pretty, traditional English market town".

A company spokesperson said: “We strive to be a good neighbour in the communities in which we operate, which is why ahead of submitting our proposal in Oakham, we carried out an extensive consultation process to understand what local people want, and listen to any concerns they may have had." ​

Councillors will vote on the plans on Tuesday evening.

Additional reporting by Press Association