KFC vows to improve litter management amid complaints of rubbish from New Milton's new branch

KFC has vowed to redouble its litter-collecting efforts amid complaints that waste from its new branch in New Milton has been plaguing the town centre.

Speaking at the latest full town council meeting, Cllr Steve Davies expressed disappointment at having received a number of reports from residents of packaging from the fast food eatery in Station Road being found dumped in the surrounding area.

“I’d made the point quite clearly that we wanted a rigorous litter picking regime in place, but I’ve seen nothing of the sort,” Cllr Davies said.

“This is third-hand, but I’ve heard there is a lot of KFC-branded litter around the town. This is not acceptable.”

Agreeing with this point, mayor and town council chair Cllr Keith Craze said a letter would be written to KFC to make members' feelings known.

Responding to the criticism, a spokesperson for KFC acknowledged there was an issue relating to litter from the branch which opened in December 2021.

“We won’t brush this under the carpet… We know it’s not ideal,” the spokesperson told the A&T.

“We always encourage our fans to throw away their litter and our team members do their bit too – carrying out regular litter picks around our restaurant to keep it clean and tidy.

“We’ll be redoubling our efforts so we can continue to be the best neighbour possible.”

As reported in the A&T, the prospect of a KFC restaurant coming to New Milton divided opinion among residents – with littering among the main concerns raised by those against it.

Heidi Down, who launched online petition Stop KFC coming to New Milton, had expressed her fear that rubbish from the branch would add to “huge amounts” already plaguing the recreation ground’s play park and skate park.

But a rival online petition, Give KFC franchise permission for store in New Milton, set up by Joe Greg, upheld views in favour that included the belief it would help rejuvenate the high street.