A COUNCILLOR who highlighted hazardous car parking by takeaway delivery drivers working for fast food giant McDonalds at its Redcar restaurant says the problem has “gone from bad to worse”.

Councillor Chris Jones said it appeared the chain had taken no action in response to his concerns.

Cllr Jones, who represents the West Dyke ward on Redcar and Cleveland Council, previously claimed McDonalds was putting profit over safety at its outlet at Redcar Retail Park, something the company denies.

Takeaway drivers have repeatedly clogged up nearby roads and pavements with Cllr Jones claiming they aren’t allowed to use McDonalds own car park, which was reserved for customers and staff working inside the restaurant.

He said the actions of takeaway drivers, combined with congestion caused by drive-through customers at busy times and other customers attempting to park in the vicinity was creating a major risk for members of the public.

Cllr Jones, who is the Liberal Democrats’ candidate for Police and Crime Commissioner in Cleveland, said: “Before long someone is going to be seriously injured, if not killed, as a result of the hazards created by the business.

“This has gone on for months.

“The situation has gone from bad to worse and it appears no action has been taken whatsoever to mitigate the risk.”

As well as the potential danger to road users and pedestrians, the Local Democracy Reporting Service also understands there have been complaints from local residents living near the McDonalds outlet.

Cllr Jones has suggested McDonalds could lease extra parking space in the area in a bid to mitigate the problem.

McDonalds said it was again reaching out to Cllr Jones with a view to arranging a meeting with him to discuss a long-term solution, with its delivery partners and representatives from the retail park also attending.

A spokeswoman said: “We are aware of the wider traffic issues in the area around the Redcar restaurant and are working with our delivery partners to ensure all couriers are parking appropriately.

“We strive to be a good neighbour in the local community and will continue to do all we can to ensure the safety of our customers, colleagues and local residents.”