Fortitudo applies to build two drive-through restaurants off busy Jumpers roundabout in Christchurch

PLANS for two drive-through takeaways on a busy roundabout in Christchurch have drawn a raft of objections from local residents.

Poole-based developer Fortitudo has submitted an outline plan to build the fast-food restaurants and 28 parking spaces on a site off Jumpers roundabout, at the corner of Barrack Road and The Grove.

They would provide up to 55 new jobs.

Two previous schemes by the company to construct flats at the site were rejected, last year and in 2021, over fears of flooding and over-development.

By today (Monday), 40 objections had been received, with one saying: "The roads around the roundabout already get congested due to the heavyweight usage, to add another entrance and exit virtually off the roundabout will make things worse and I believe create an accident hotspot.

"Barrack Road already has many food and drink outlets along its length and this request does nothing to enhance the community in any way."

Another added: "As a resident of The Grove, and having a daily battle with traffic to get to and from my home, the thought of the increased traffic, noise and inevitably litter that this will bring fills me with dread."

There was also a steady stream of detractors on social media, with one saying the plans were "absolute madness".

But there was one letter of support from a neighbour, who stated as long as the restaurants were different from other nearby sites, they would benefit the area. They added: "Some road improvements to the roundabout towards Iford would be beneficial, too."

Christchurch Independents said the group was “concerned” about the new proposal. Cllr Vanessa Ricketts said: “This development would only add to the already over-congested junction which regularly sees vehicles queueing back towards Iford in rush-hour.

"This is a gateway site, and any development should reflect that. Barrack Road is already one of the most congested roads in the conurbation.”

Cllr Margaret Phipps added: “This application for not one but two drive-through takeaways is excessive and completely inappropriate on this plot which currently has a green open frontage.

“The potential disruption to nearby residents from additional traffic noise and litter is obvious. I urge Christchurch residents to give their views through the consultation."

In its planning statement to BCP Council, Fortitudo said the scheme represents "a rare opportunity to bring forward a beneficial regeneration opportunity" in the town, with a "significant increase" in job opportunities.

BCP Council will make a decision on the application after consultation ends on 1st March.