The proposal for a 24-hour McDonald’s drive-through on Old Shoreham Road in Hove has been met with a significant recommendation for refusal from the director of public health at Brighton and Hove City Council. This decision stems from growing health concerns in a city already burdened by high obesity rates, particularly as Hove has the highest density of fast-food outlets in the South East, standing at 149 per 100,000 residents.

In his response to the proposed development, the director indicated that granting permission would contradict the council’s commitment to enhanced health and wellbeing among residents. It is noteworthy that the area surrounding the proposed site is already among the most deprived in the city, with higher levels of obesity reported. This geographical juxtaposition raised alarms about the accessibility of unhealthy food options in communities that are statistically more vulnerable to obesity-related issues.

Concerns have also emerged regarding the environmental impact of the drive-through, particularly in relation to air quality. Nearing its culmination, a local protest organized by residents is scheduled for June 17, exemplifying grassroots opposition to the McDonald’s proposal. Community members have expressed worries not only about obesity but also about increased traffic congestion and pollution, which could exacerbate existing issues in an area where roads already experience high volumes, with Old Shoreham Road accommodating up to 28,000 vehicles daily.

The proposed design foresees potential traffic disruptions, including queues that might extend back onto Old Shoreham Road, a concern echoed by a highways and transport expert who has raised flags about traffic safety—specifically regarding an “uncontrolled pedestrian crossing” near the site, which could pose dangers to local school children given its proximity to at least four educational institutions. Parents have voiced apprehensions about the safety of their children against an anticipated uptick in vehicular traffic associated with the drive-through.

Further context can be gleaned from national trends in public health and fast-food development. Similar opposition to McDonald’s outlets has been documented elsewhere, such as in Thanet, where a proposal for a fifth outlet heightened fears of worsening obesity rates, with local surveys indicating that 60% of residents oppose the new branch. Critics argue that large fast-food chains are undermining local health initiatives, especially those aimed at curbing the proliferation of fast-food venues amid rising obesity levels.

Moreover, McDonald’s has faced allegations of imposing aggressive tactics in response to such refusals, with claims that the company has successfully appealed against planning rejections based on its promotion of healthier menu items. In a climate where public health advocates are fighting to enhance access to nutritious food choices, the pushback against the Hove drive-through shines a light on the broader challenges inherent in urban planning and fast-food expansion.

With an effort to foster healthier communities, cities across the globe are reassessing their regulations around fast food and its implications for public health, traffic, and environmental sustainability. Instances like the one in Hove illustrate the ongoing tug-of-war between economic development aspirations and community health priorities, signalling a growing public sentiment favouring healthier alternatives over fast-food accessibility.

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Source: Noah Wire Services