McDonald's has officially denied rumours that it is opening a new branch on a key holiday route between the Midlands and Wales, following an online job advertisement blunder. The fast-food giant confirmed that a listing for a "crew member" position in Ross-on-Wye was posted in error, sparking speculation about a potential restaurant launch in the area.
Job Advertisement Sparks Speculation
Suggestions emerged that McDonald's could be opening a restaurant in Ross-on-Wye, particularly at the former Traveller's Rest site located at the M50/A449 roundabout northeast of the town. This speculation arose after an online job advertisement for a crew member listed Ross as the workplace, leading many to believe a new branch was imminent.
McDonald's Clarifies the Error
A representative from McDonald's confirmed that the job listing was "in error" and actually related to a position at the firm's newly launched branch in New Ross, County Wexford, Ireland. However, the company would neither confirm nor deny whether it is contemplating opening a restaurant at the Traveller's Rest premises, which closed its doors to customers in July 2024.
Previous Planning Proposal Rejected
McDonald's has shown interest in establishing itself in Ross-on-Wye for some time. In 2022, the company lodged a planning proposal to build a new branch near the neighbouring A40/A449 roundabout. However, this application was turned down by planners 12 months later after substantial numbers of local representations both against and supporting the development.
Local Councillor's Perspective
Local ward councillor Chris Bartrum stated that he had received no verification of the McDonald's speculation. Nevertheless, he suggested that he "didn't think as many people would object" to a restaurant in an existing structure at the end of the M50. Such a move would avoid the same planning policy complications, especially regarding traffic concerns that plagued the previous proposal.
Current Planning Situation
No recent planning application appears to have been submitted in relation to the Traveller's Rest site. While a formal change of use would not be necessary given its past as a restaurant, it is probable that McDonald's would want to incorporate a drive-through facility, especially considering its location. This would necessitate planning consent, and the company would also likely need to submit a separate application for new external signage, as was the case with its previous unsuccessful attempt.
Adjacent Developments
In the meantime, the adjacent Premier Inn has lodged a planning application to add a two-storey, 20-room extension to the back of the Traveller's Rest. Whitbread plc, the owner of both the Premier Inn and the Traveller's Rest brands, also submitted a planning application around the time of the Traveller's Rest closure to reclassify it as a restaurant rather than a pub, which was approved.
Curious Online Marker
Interestingly, a "Fictional" McDonald's is now marked on Google Maps at the site, adding to the confusion and speculation. Google has been asked to clarify this marking, but no official response has been provided at this time.
The situation remains uncertain as McDonald's maintains its stance on the job advertisement error while leaving the door open for future possibilities in Ross-on-Wye. Local residents and business observers will be watching closely for any further developments or official announcements from the fast-food chain regarding its plans for the area.
