A drive-through Burger King will no longer be built at a County Durham service station after residents raised concerns over fast food takeaways, litter and rats.  

Durham County Council planning officers were due to consider an application for a new forecourt shop building and drive-through at Stonebridge Service Station in Durham. 

Currently owned by Shell, the plans showed the current shop building was due to be demolished and replaced to “enhance the retail area” with food offerings and provide improved car parking.

The service station is located off the A690, at Nevilles Cross Bank, on the outskirts of Durham city but nearby residents objected to the plans due to the amount of fast food outlets in the area. 

A statement from Nevilles Cross Community Association, made up of residents, read: “The NXCA wishes to object to this application. It has no issue with the erection of new fuel and associated facilities but it wishes to object to the inclusion of a fast food outlet.”

The group added that the new shop and drive-through fast food outlet would lead to heavier traffic and more litter. “Given that this site is primarily accessible by car use, the increase in traffic, idling engines and potential litter in surrounding areas suggest that this application runs contrary to Durham County Council policies,” the statement added. 

Residents along nearby Coupland Way have explained how they are currently suffering a rat problem, and a new fast food drive-through would make it worse. 

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Other objections stated how it would have a detrimental impact on the already struggling nearby communities like Langley Moor, which have seen several businesses close in recent months. Locals also argued that the plans conflicted with local and national policy on promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing health inequalities.

One resident added: “The smell of fried food would pervade the area.”

No explanation was given as to why the application was withdrawn. The applicant, Motor Fuel Group did not respond to comment.