New KFC and Burger King drive-thru branches planned for Sunderland - with 83 jobs set to be created at development

Fast food giants KFC and Burger King could open new drive-thru restaurants in Sunderland under new leisure plans.
New drive-thru branches of the popular fastfood chains could be heading to SunderlandNew drive-thru branches of the popular fastfood chains could be heading to Sunderland
New drive-thru branches of the popular fastfood chains could be heading to Sunderland

Sunderland City Council’s ruling cabinet discussed proposals for the former Salterfen Industrial Estate site, in the Ryhope ward, at a meeting in 2018.

The project has seen several changes to designs and contractors since being announced – with early plans including space for a petrol station.

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Now project developer Alisa3 Developments Ltd has lodged a full planning application for the vacant site.

According to a planning statement, restaurant chains Burger King and KFC are being lined up as tenants for drive-thru spaces.

The application goes on to say KFC are expected to occupy a one-storey building at the northern edge of the site, while Burger King could occupy a two-storey building to the south.

A further three commercial units are also proposed alongside 96 parking spaces – including six disabled bays.

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And according to developers, the plans are expected to have a real economic impact, creating up to 83 jobs.

A design and access statement concludes: “The site is also designed as a gateway site to bridge the link between the residential areas and the industrial/ commercial areas.

“The proposal is in keeping with the surrounding area including commercial development to the north and new residential development to the south and will provide a much-needed commercial space for the local area.

“It is our primary design aim to give Salterfen Road a high quality visual identity, to increase the visual appearance of the area and utilise the site’s gateway potential.”

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Developers added no suitable alternative sites were available for the development in nearby wards.

A Burger King spokeswoman said: "Burger King franchisees are regularly evaluating opportunities to bring our great-tasting products to more customers in new locations.

"We do not currently have any information regarding this location but we are always looking at ways of fulfilling the needs of Whopper enthusiasts all over the country."

If approved, proposed opening hours for the retail units could be 7am-11pm, seven days a week.

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Public comments on the plans can be made in writing until Wednesday, September 4.

A final decision rests with the planning authority and is expected by early October.

For more information, visit www.sunderland.gov.uk/online-applications and search planning ref: 19/01301/FU4

KFC has been contacted for comment.