Plans are underway for a new McDonald’s drive-thru near the M5 motorway in Somerset, with the potential to create more than 120 new jobs for the local community if approved. The proposed site is located at Bridgwater Gateway, just north of the A38 Taunton Road near junction 24.
Bridgwater Gateway is already home to ten business units, a Premier Inn hotel, a Lidl supermarket, and outlets from Costa Coffee, Domino’s Pizza, and Greggs. The area is also set to see significant residential development, with 511 homes planned within North Petherton parish, including 361 by Keepmoat Homes and 150 by the Vistry Group.
The development proposal includes the McDonald’s drive-thru on vacant land along Carnival Way, alongside two additional industrial units. The restaurant will be situated between the Greggs outlet and the Lidl car park, positioned at the southern edge of the site. Primary access will be from Carnival Way, complemented by a new pedestrian and cycle link connecting to Taunton Road and integrating with the Bridgwater local cycling and walking infrastructure plan (LCWIP).
The drive-thru will provide 37 car parking spaces, including two disabled bays, two electric vehicle charging stations, and 18 cycle parking spaces. Although the exact opening hours have not been specified, they are expected to align with neighboring businesses to minimize antisocial behaviour and reduce late-night traffic.
The two additional industrial units will be located at the north-west corner of the site, featuring six car parking spaces, eight van spaces, and two disabled bays. Their design will be consistent with existing units at the Gateway site.
Angus Meek Architects, representing the applicant Bridgwater Gateway Ltd, emphasized the project’s importance in delivering much-needed commercial space and supporting economic growth in the area. They noted that McDonald’s investment in this multi-million-pound scheme will create significant local employment opportunities, with over 120 full- and part-time positions expected to be filled by nearby residents.
Somerset Council is anticipated to reach a decision on the application within six months, although it remains uncertain whether this will be handled by the planning committee north or through delegated officer authority.