Decision on Wendy’s application for restaurant off A47 outside Swaffham due by end of January

A decision on whether a world-famous burger joint can open in our area is due before the end of the month.

At the start of December, a planning application to construct a Wendy’s fast food restaurant near Swaffham was submitted to Breckland Council.

If approved, the drive-thru would be built on a site which currently accommodates the former Avanti Grille Cafe building – which a report says has become “dilapidated and in need of demolition”.

The council’s planning authority is due to decide whether to green-light the proposals by January 29.

As part of the application, a design and access statement was prepared by The Harris Partnership Ltd on behalf of the applicant, Mechanical Digger Ltd.

The applicant says it worked closely with Wendy’s throughout this process to ensure the building will be suitable for its needs.

The site, off the A47, is located just under three miles west of Swaffham town centre – and lies close to the roundabout junction with Downham Road (A1122) to the north west.

The report says: “The design has been developed in close collaboration with the intended operator to ensure the most efficient use of the site.

“The site is easily accessible to all modes of transport and provides easy access within the site curtilage.

“The proposal will remove a derelict building and provide a modern addition for the area.

“The new proposals will attract further job opportunities and contribute further facilities for the local area.”

If the plans are approved, the new drive-thru would become the second Wendy’s in close proximity to West Norfolk restaurant-goers – with another opening in nearby Wisbech last year.

The American fast food giant first set up shop in the UK in the 1980s, but left in the early 2000s.

However, in recent years, a number of restaurants have popped up across the country and the chain looks to re-establish itself.