Colchester: Burger King could now come to Stane Leisure Park

It was revealed in 2023 that global restaurant chain Burger King were interested in the site at Stane Park.

But the plans, which included a drive-thru at the site, were rejected by Colchester Council.

Stane Leisure Park already has The Princess Charlotte pub, a Starbucks, KFC, Nando’s, and Vets for Pets.

But the unit Burger King was interested in has been unoccupied since 2018.

During Colchester Council’s previous ruling, it was decided that “proposed development” would result in a “car dominant scheme with drive-thru infrastructure being particularly prominent from public vantage points.”

Stane Leisure Park - parking spaces near the KFC (Image: Google Maps) The council was also concerned that the introduction of a drive-through lane alongside the existing play park would result in a “cramped area of public space” and introduce “conflict between users of the park and vehicles”.

An appeal was subsequently made by the developer, Ropemaker Properties LTD against Colchester Council’s decision.

Following a site inspection on October 30, the developer’s appeal has now been granted by the planning inspectorate.

A decision letter said: “On the basis of all that is before me, it seems more likely that the proposed building would be occupied.

"This would be likely to bring with it a level of activity and custom which the existing building does not and address the exiting unit’s failure to reflect the vibrancy of other units within Stane Leisure Park."

Appeal won - the vacant unit which now has planning permission (Image: Google Maps) They added: "As a food and drink development, the proposal would, I accept, result in some noise and litter. However, I have no substantive evidence that this would be likely to be excessive."

Fast-food - Burger King signage (Image: Mike Egerton/PA Wire) As part of the plans to redevelop the site, the building will need to be knocked down and rebuilt.

A spokesman for Colchester Council said: "While we respect the inspector’s role in this process, the council remains concerned about several implications of this development.

"Specifically, the potential impacts on local traffic patterns, pedestrian safety, and the character of the leisure park were key considerations in the council’s initial refusal of planning permission.

"We note that the inspector has acknowledged these concerns but has ultimately deemed the proposed mitigation measures sufficient.

“We are committed to ensuring that developments in Colchester contribute positively to our communities and adhere to high standards of design and sustainability.

"We will monitor the implementation of this development closely to ensure compliance with the conditions imposed by the Inspector, including those related to landscaping, transport, and environmental impact.

“We remain dedicated to supporting a balanced approach to development that aligns with our strategic goals for sustainable growth, vibrant public spaces, and the well-being of our residents.”