Plans submitted to turn Stanborough pub into McDonald's

The fast food giant has submitted a planning application to transform the former Stanborough pub into a restaurant, but residents have voiced fears about litter, noise, and anti-social behaviour.

The pub has been closed since July 2024, and the proposals have been described as unwelcome by people living in the area.

One resident said: "Residents will face increased litter in surrounding streets and green spaces, additional traffic and congestion, noise from customers, vehicles and deliveries early in the morning and late at night, and a much greater risk of antisocial behaviour and vermin.

"We are all familiar with the kind of behaviour associated with the McDonald's in the town centre already.

Here's how the new McDonald's restaurant site would be laid out. (Image: Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council)

"For families, elderly residents and those living closest to the site, these issues could significantly affect their peace, safety and enjoyment of their homes.

"Once approved, the development could permanently change the character of our neighbourhood and create problems that will be difficult to control."

The planning application details a range of changes to the building, including new double doors on the north-east elevation, shopfront glazing, and HVAC equipment on the roof.

A new entrance would be added on the eastern elevation, while a door on the north-west side would be filled in.

Another resident objected on the grounds of waste and safety.

They said: "Litter is already a problem, regularly scattered on the grass and car park at the front by the entrance way and not cleared up.

"Extra rubbish from the restaurant will attract rats which is a public health issue.

"Takeaway delivery drivers will be coming in and out and will also add to the volume of traffic.

"The McDonalds in town already attracts a lot on anti-social behaviour which they do not have under control, the police are regular visitors.

"This new site would soon be the new hangout for people with nowhere to go."

A third resident voiced similar concerns about vermin.

They said: "Given that Welwyn McDonalds has faced publicised battles with serious rat infestations, neighbours are deeply concerned that a new fast-food site will exacerbate the area's rodent issues.

"The town's existing ⁠Howardsgate McDonald's has previously drawn fire over waste management and hygiene complaints linked to pests."

To view the plans, visit planning.welhat.gov.uk/Search/Basic and search 6/2026/1232/FULL.