McDonald's Seeks Midnight Licence for New Leeds Restaurant Amid Safety Concerns

McDonald's plans to operate its new restaurant in Headingley Central until midnight have sparked controversy, with 43 objection letters submitted to Leeds City Council. The proposed "late night refreshment" licence has raised fears of exacerbating anti-social behaviour on the Otley Run, a popular drinking route that attracts thousands of people at weekends. McDonald's has promised to implement measures to prevent public nuisance, including supervising children after 9pm and making a manager's contact number publicly available.

Key Takeaways:

• McDonald's has applied for a "late night refreshment" licence to operate its new restaurant in Headingley Central until midnight.
• 43 objection letters were submitted to Leeds City Council, including from ward councillors and the Ash Road Area Residents' Association.
• Fears were raised that opening until midnight would exacerbate anti-social behaviour on the Otley Run.
• McDonald's promised to implement measures to prevent public nuisance, including supervising children after 9pm and making a manager's contact number publicly available.
• Labour councillor James Gibson expressed concerns about violent incidents at the city centre McDonald's, citing that customers are going there intoxicated.
• Ben Williams, representing McDonald's, stated that CCTV, body cameras, and panic buttons would be used to keep staff safe.

Statistics:

• 43 objection letters were submitted to Leeds City Council.
• McDonald's has a existing licence to operate until 11pm at its Otley Road restaurant.
• 5 days is the timeframe for McDonald's to receive a written decision on the proposed licence application.

Sources:

• Leeds City Council
• Labour councillor James Gibson
• Ben Williams, representing McDonald's