Plans have been revived to open Herne Bay’s first McDonald’s.
The fast-food chain has submitted a bid to convert the former Table Table restaurant in Margate Road.
It had previously won permission to open on the neighbouring Altira Business Park, but withdrew the plans in 2024 when David Lloyd secured approval for a new leisure centre on the same site.
Now, a fresh application has been lodged to transform the empty Table Table building – next to the Premier Inn hotel – into a new McDonald’s branch. It will not have a drive-thru.
Planning documents submitted to Canterbury City Council show the restaurant would open daily between 6am and midnight.
The proposals include removal of an existing extension, refurbishment of the building and resurfacing works outside, along with the provision of a new refuse store.
“Internally, the restaurant will be fully refurbished with a new customer area, space for staff and a new kitchen,” the application states.
“Some replacement windows are proposed, as is a new access and other minor alterations.
“In addition to the proposed refurbishment, the car park and external area are to be resurfaced, and with the introduction of new EV chargers and improved pedestrian walkways, there will be loss of one parking space to accommodate the EV Charging.
“As part of the patio refurbishment, cycle storage has been provided, as have new tables and chairs, low-level lighting and new railings.
“The new refuse corral is proposed to the western elevation of the building.
“This will allow direct delivery of goods to the restaurant from the car park, allowing cages a level access to the storage area.”
Access to the site would remain shared with the neighbouring Premier Inn, via the existing entrance off Blacksole Farm.
The company says it would carry out a minimum of three daily litter patrols covering a 150-metre radius around the restaurant, collecting both McDonald’s-branded packaging and other waste.
The plans are yet to be decided by the city council but a determination deadline has been set for March 20.
No details have been released about when the restaurant could open if approved.
Blacksole Farm is accessed off a small roundabout at the foot of the Margate Road flyover – the same route used by anyone entering the Altira Business Park.
The retail estate already hosts a large Sainsbury’s store and the recently opened David Lloyd facility, with plans also in the pipeline for a new Aldi store next to the leisure club.
