Plans for Cheltenham KFC welcomed, despite litter fears

PLANS for a new KFC in Cheltenham have been backed, despite fears over littering.

The fast food giant has made a planning application to open a restaurant in the former Early Learning Centre unit in Pittville Street.

There will be 119 covers in the eatery, while 25 jobs will be created, split between 15 full-time and 10 part-time.

"It is great news that an empty unit is being filled," said Martin Quantock, town centre manager.

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"Along with its arrival will come jobs too which is fantastic.

"KFC is an international brand and the fact they are showing confidence in Cheltenham is reassuring."

However, Mr Quantock is concerned about the possibility of increased littering problems in the area.

He added: "There could well be more litter as a result of this.

"Ideally, I would like to see KFC, Burger King and McDonalds all link together and come up with some kind of initiative to combat the problem."

The proposed opening hours are 8am to 4am Monday to Saturday and 9.30am to 11pm on Sundays

John Forward, Regent Arcade centre manager, was also concerned about litter.

He said: "Every Tuesday morning, the day after student night in town, the litter is horrendous outside the centre and we have to clean it all up.

"This may well add to that unless something is done. I would like to see KFC employ staff to clean up around the town centre.

"We have a huge seagull problem and this would just make it so much worse."

He added: "But apart from that I am all for it, it is great that an empty unit is being filled, really good news for the town centre."

KFC could not be reached for comment.

People have until February 25 to have their say on the application by visiting www.cheltenham.gov.uk.