KFC’s attempt to extend its operating hours until 5am in Bridgwater has been postponed following a councillor’s failure to attend the scheduled licensing hearing.
The fast-food chain sought permission to modify the licence for its Dunball location near junction 23 of the M5. The proposed change would allow the outlet to sell takeaway food through its drive-thru through the early morning hours.
Somerset Council’s licensing sub-committee north, responsible for major licensing decisions in the former Sedgemoor area, was set to meet virtually on Tuesday, November 25, to review the application. However, the hearing was canceled at short notice because one of the three panel members did not join the meeting.
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The sub-committee panel typically consists of three councillors representing areas outside the application’s immediate locality. On the day of the hearing, Councillors Martin Lovell and Tony Robbins joined the virtual meeting, but Councillor Marcus Kravis—who was to chair the session—was absent. This absence meant the panel was not quorate.
Sub-committee secretary Lee Willment explained, “Unfortunately, due to the fact that we are not quorate, we will need to postpone the meeting. We aim to reschedule in the new year and will notify the applicant and interested parties with the new date soon.”
Currently, the KFC Dunball branch operates from 10am to 10pm daily, offering dining in and takeaway. The company’s application includes opening daily from 9:30am and providing “late-night refreshment” through the drive-thru until 5am, with all service after midnight occurring through the drive-thru lane.
The proposal met opposition from Puriton Parish Council, which raised concerns about increased noise and antisocial behaviour in the area. Parish clerk Sally Diaz stated, “Noise from extended hours would significantly impact nearby residents. The site already generates substantial noise during current opening times. Additionally, overnight vehicle occupants have no sanitary facilities.”
Due to a packed council schedule, the hearing cannot be rescheduled in December. Matthew Phipps of TLT Solicitors, representing KFC, expressed a preference for an early January date.
The council will announce the rescheduled hearing date in the coming weeks on its official website.