McDonald's Plans Spark Traffic Fears Near Historic Watermill

Villagers in Heacham, near Hunstanton, are divided over plans for a new McDonald's fast food store close to a listed watermill.

The proposed site is opposite the Grade II listed Caley Mill, which is home to Norfolk Lavender, and a carrstone bridge over the Heacham River dating back to the early 19th century.

McDonald's has described the scheme as 'a multi-million-pound investment by a national operator' that would create more than 120 jobs.

However, many residents have expressed concerns about traffic congestion and the impact on the area's character. One objector said: 'The junction where the building is proposed already causes long tailbacks of traffic. It can take an hour to get from Snettisham to Hunstanton at peak time.'