Oakham residents give their views on McDonald's plans to open a restaurant in the town

Oakham residents have been giving their views on a fast food chain's proposal to come to the town.

McDonald's has put forward plans to open its first restaurant in Rutland, the only county not to have the golden arches in England.

If approved, the restaurant would be built on the corner of Land's End Way and Hackamore Way.

A public event was held at Victoria Hall today (May 22) for people to come and find more about the plans.

Residents spoke to the Mercury and offered a range of views on the proposals.

Larry Cobley, 72, from Oakham, said: "I'm for it.

"We haven't got much in the way of fast food and there's only a Dominoes in town."

Patsy Clifton, 76, from Oakham, said: "I think it's a good thing.

"I wouldn't eat there but it's the young ones that like McDonald's.

"It's on the by-pass so it's not going to create any traffic in the town centre.

"McDonald's are pretty good at keeping their sites clean.

"I don't see it as a problem."

Muriel Reid, 52, from Oakham, said: "I'm in favour of it.

"We've got charity shops and coffee shops so it's good to have something new.

"We need things for young children in Oakham."

Peter Davies, 83, from Oakham, said: "My son used to work for McDonald's so I know quite a lot about them.

"I don't think we really need it."

A local resident who wished to remain anonymous, said: "Get rid of it.

"It's a about 50 yards from my front door.

"They don't know when it's going to open or shut.

"I'm worried it's going to cause rats and foxes to come to the area.

"I've got young children running about the garden and the local youths are already using my garden as a dustbin so you can imagine what it's going to be like if it goes ahead."

Sarah Tibbetts, 40, from Oakham, said: "I think it's really sad.

"Rutland is the only county in England without one.

"I don't think it's necessary.

"There should be recreation for children, not fast food."

Around 1530 people have taken part in a poll and 53 per cent are in favour with 47 per cent against.

Rutland County Council have said a planning application has yet to be submitted and would have to go through all the standard planning procedures.