McDonald’s opens Welshpool branch today

Less than a year after its plans were submitted, McDonald’s will open a Welshpool restaurant on the outskirts of the town today.

It’s been a rapid turnaround for the fast food chain which will open its doors next to the A483 Buttington roundabout at 11am.

Despite concerns about traffic management, litter, lighting and the obvious argument over obesity, McDonald’s was given the green light by planners with the creation of over 60 full and part-time jobs proving a decisive factor.

Only last month, Welshpool's former mayor, Cllr Steve Kaye, called on McDonald's to work with Powys County Council to provide lighting from the town to the restaurant.

The new staff have been receiving training at the Newtown facility in preparation for today, with Welshpool set to start as a 24-hour restaurant with a drive-thru facility and 26 parking spaces.