McDonald’s could be heading to Fakenham.

McDonald’s Restaurants has asked North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) for advice about building a branch of the famous Golden Arches on land just south of the town’s Lidl supermarket, off Holt Road.

But not everyone is happy with the plans, which would include a drive-through. 

Eastern Daily Press: Mayor of Fakenham, Angela GlynnMayor of Fakenham, Angela Glynn (Image: Archant)

Angela Glynn, Fakenham's mayor, said she did not see the need for a McDonald's there.

She said: “We already have plenty of fast food outlets in the town, I would personally question if we need more.

"But this will be discussed at full council once a formal application has been made.”

Eastern Daily Press: Christopher Cushing NNDC councillor for Fakenham Lancaster North WardChristopher Cushing NNDC councillor for Fakenham Lancaster North Ward (Image: North Norfolk District Council)

However, councillor Christopher Cushing, who represents Fakenham's Lancaster North ward at NNDC, said he backed the plans.

Mr Cushing said: “I am pleased that McDonald’s have applied to build a restaurant in Fakenham. It is a terrific vote of confidence in the town to attract investment from a multinational corporation.

“If successful I am sure it will help attract more visitors to the town and create new jobs.”

Currently, the closest McDonald's to Fakenham is in Napier Way in Dereham.

Eastern Daily Press: An aerial photo of Lidl, on Holt Road in Fakenham. The area to the rear of the supermarket is where McDonald's has applied to build An aerial photo of Lidl, on Holt Road in Fakenham. The area to the rear of the supermarket is where McDonald's has applied to build (Image: Google Maps)

The 1.94 acre site was advertised for sale earlier this year, with offers of more than £700,000 requested.

The company announced a four-year plan in 2021 to recruit 20,000 more employees and open 50 new outlets.

But earlier this year the firm's UK chief executive, Alistair Macrow, said they were facing waits of up to three years to open new restaurants because of local council approval delays and excessive bureaucracy.

And the company has recently become embroiled in claims of widespread sexual harassment among staff.

Eastern Daily Press: Plans have been submitted to North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) by McDonald's Restaurants LtdPlans have been submitted to North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) by McDonald's Restaurants Ltd (Image: Simon Parkin)

A decision is expected by December 6.

The application can be viewed on NNDC's planning portal, look up reference IS2/23/2201.

McDonald’s has been contacted for further comment.