Fakenham McDonald’s plans take major step forward after North Norfolk District Council approves signs

Plans for a fast-food restaurant in a North Norfolk town look set to move to the next stage after a council gave permission for signs to be installed.

Proposals for a McDonald’s in Fakenham have taken a major step forward after North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) has given the green light for a series of site additions.

Various illuminated and non-illuminated signs, including four freestanding, a banner and 26 dot signs of multiple uses now have approval.

If built, the fast-food company says it would create 120 jobs for the town and also mark a “significant investment” in the area.

However, a decision on the full planning application to build the town’s first drive-thru restaurant itself as well as car parking, landscaping and associated works has yet to be reached.

“There was no objection to the planning application regarding the traffic signage at the proposed McDonald’s site off Holt Road,” said a Fakenham Town Council spokesperson.

“However, the council has received concerns from residents on and around the Holt Road/Greenway Lane junction about additional and turning traffic in the 40mph speed limit.

“We will pass those comments on to the Highways Authority.”

McDonald’s first submitted its application to NNDC back in November 2023.

Currently, Fakenham’s only other fast-food giant is Subway with its nearest McDonald’s being in Dereham, almost 14 miles away.

A decision is set to be made on the full application later in the year.