New McDonald’s approved for former Blackburn town centre Pizza Hut site

THE former Pizza Hut restaurant in Blackburn town centre can now become a McDonald’s outlet.

The iconic American fast food chain has been granted planning permission to extend the premises in Mayson Street prior to occupation creating new jobs.

The Pizza Hut branch, on the main access road to the Peel Centre and Vue Cinema, closed suddenly in July after almost 20 years in the town.

The building will now become the fifth McDonald’s site in Blackburn – joining restaurants in King William Street, Livesey Branch Road, Burnley Road and at the M65 Extra services.

Permission has also been given for new signs including a totem with the firm’s famous golden arches.

McDonald’s Restaurants Ltd has submitted a full planning application for alterations to allow it to take over the site opposite the Matalan store and the Ice Arena in September.

A report recommending approval from Blackburn with Darwen Council with four conditions by planning officer Jamie Edwards says: “The application site relates to a single-storey building positioned on the eastern side of Mayson Street and at the junction with Lower Audley Street, Blackburn.

“The building is set back from the road, with a car park and landscaped area surrounding it.

“The site forms part of the Peel Centre complex which comprises a mix of retail and leisure uses.

“The host property is a restaurant use previously occupied by Pizza Hut.

“McDonalds Restaurants Ltd seek to operate from the premises.

“It should be noted this is a permitted change that does not require the benefit of planning permission as both the former and end user fall within the same use classes relating to the sale of food and drink to the public where consumption is mostly undertaken on the premises.

“Planning permission is sought for an infill single-storey extension, external alterations to the building which includes a new shop front door and glazing.

“The proposal also seeks the installation of plant and equipment on the roof, removal of existing bin store and creation of new corral area.

“Changes to the existing parking layout, as well as a new perimeter fencing, are also proposed.

“The proposed single-storey infill extension will replace the existing paved area underneath the existing roof overhang.

“It is a relatively modest addition designed to harmonise with the existing building.

“The proposed works are in keeping with the existing building and would integrate well with the wider commercial setting.

“Two pedestrian crossing points are to be introduced to improve safety to and from the site entrance.”

A supporting statement with the application said: “Overall, the proposals will bring the recently-vacated unit back into active use and provide a new restaurant in a highly-accessible location that fulfils a demand for McDonald’s in this area.

“It will also result in economic benefits including new employment opportunities and the generation of business rates.”

McDonald’s has been approached for comment on the decision.