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McDonald's makes restaurant bid on old hotel site

AEW Architects A computer generated view of a McDonald's restaurant next to the A77 road in southern Scotland with trees in the background and cars using the drive throughAEW Architects
McDonald's wants to open a restaurant near the ferry ports in Cairnryan

Burger giant McDonald's has lodged plans for a drive-through restaurant on the grounds of a derelict hotel near the ferry ports at Cairnryan.

The company said it would create 120 jobs and see an investment of about £4m on the site of the old Lochryan Hotel.

Prior to submitting its planning application to Dumfries and Galloway Council, McDonald's carried out a public consultation event in the area.

Senior acquisitions surveyor Andrew Crewther said it was a "significant milestone" in plans to bring a restaurant to the area.

Billy McCrorie A white-fronted hotel building surrounded by a low brick wall with a striking blue sky overheadBilly McCrorie
The restaurant would be on the grounds of a former hotel

"We have been delighted with the overwhelming support the proposed restaurant has received from the local community, with 95% of all of respondents writing to confirm their support for our proposals," he said.

"This feedback reinforces the need for greater local food options, and we're thrilled to be bringing forward a new McDonald's restaurant to serve the area's needs.

"I'd like to thank all those who have taken the time to provide comments on the proposals throughout our consultation programme."

It is the second bid by the company for planning permission for a new restaurant in Dumfries and Galloway in a matter of months.

McDonald's withdrew proposals for a second site in Dumfries after they were recommended for refusal by the local authority.