PLANS to build a drive-through KFC in Southend have been submitted.
 
Almost 20 full-time and 35 part-time jobs would be created if the fast food restaurant gets the go-ahead at the Greyhound Retail Park, off Greyhound Way, Southend.
The contemporary restaurant would be at the eastern end of what is currently a car park for the Matalan store.
Cut into a slope, the KFC would share parking with the department store, totalling 157 spaces plus six bike stands by the main entrance.
The Matalan parking spaces it uses up would be moved to an unused area to the north of the store.
The ward’s Labour councillor, Ian Gilbert, said: “I can’t see any objections to this development, as long as the parking and traffic issues are dealt with satisfactorily.
“Additional employment opportunities are always welcome in the current climate.”
Neighbour Sarah Newsham, 36, of Redstock Road, said: “We are quite happy about it. It will create new jobs.
“It’s good to see some business coming to the area, as long as the traffic goes back on to Sutton Road from the Greyhound estate.
“The only problem is when the traffic comes via Redstock Road, which sometimes happens with people leaving Mecca Bingo.”
A supporting statement by agent Planning Works says: “The drive-through restaurant itself will provide 19 full-time and 35 part-time jobs and will therefore bring significant economic benefits.
“The proposals are supportive of regeneration, in accordance with planning policy and should therefore receive planning permission.”
KFC also plans to landscape an area between the site and Sutton Road by removing silver birch, cherry and hawthorn trees and creating a “new designed planting scheme”.
Southend Council aims to deal with the application on September 7.
Separate plans have been submitted for a 4.5m KFC and Matalan sign nearby.

Original story here.