TWO authorities have voiced concerns about a proposed McDonald’s restaurant at Llanfoist, near Abergavenny.

Torfaen council, on behalf of Blaenavon World Heritage Partnership, and Brecon Beacons National Park Authority have lodged their views with planning officers, fearing the proposal could have a detrimental landscape and visual impact on both views into and out of the National Park.

Other concerns include nine signs that would be attached to the building, four of which are illuminated and include the ‘golden arches’ (which they acknowledge is restrained and will not be yellow)

In a letter to Monmouthshire council’s planning officers Cath Thomas, head of economy, enterprise and environment at Torfaen council, said that whilst there is no objection to either the principle of the development of the overall design it considers a proposed 12metre high totem as the most ‘controversial’ element in the design.

Ms Thomas also adds that the proposed materials could perhaps be more sensitively selected to include local stone and timber finish and made four recommendations for conditions should the application be approved.

She said the council has considered a separate application for a pub, hotel and 44 homes that have been approved on another part of the site, known as Westgate, as well as Costa Coffee which has been deferred for design improvements to be made.

Christopher Morgan, director of planning at the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, said he objects to the proposed development on grounds that the proposed restaurant and associated advertisement proposals, in particular the 24-hour illuminated 12m totem sign, because of its elevated position and is a kilometre from the boundary of the National Park and close to the Blorenge.

Mr Morgan said the authority believes it would have a ‘detrimental landscape and visual impact on both views into and out of the National Park to the detriment of its special qualities.’

The controversial proposal has divided public opinion, with campaign groups being formed in support and opposition.

McDonalds say the restaurant would create 65 jobs and that neutral and natural colours and materials will be used on the site to ensure the site integrates with the surroundings.

The application has yet to be considered by Monmouthshire council’s planning committee.