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KFC Snodland decision due today with Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council recommending approval

A KFC restaurant looks set to be approved today despite widespread opposition.

The finger-lickin' franchise hopes to convert an old Oast House in Malling Road, Snodland into a restaurant, sparking a blend of opinions.

There are signs for and against a KFC in Snodland. Credit: Katie Rose
There are signs for and against a KFC in Snodland. Credit: Katie Rose
There are signs for and against a KFC in Snodland. Credit: Katie Rose
There are signs for and against a KFC in Snodland. Credit: Katie Rose

Campaigners against the fried chicken chain are expected to sit at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council's Planning Committee today, having written to their local GP at Snodland Medical Practice for support.

Malling Road resident Annick West said: "In our letter we have expressed our main concern regarding public health.

"It's no secret to most people nowadays that the fast food industry could be labelled as a public enemy in terms of being a danger to public health.

"Linked obesity, diabetes and cancer, the fried food offered in these restaurants contributes to a deadly amount of salt and saturated fats in our diet."

TMBC officers have recommended councillors approve the restaurant, which will come with a drive-thru less than 10 minutes walk from The Holmesdale School.

The Oast House as it stands in Hollow Lane, Snodland (9028472)
The Oast House as it stands in Hollow Lane, Snodland (9028472)

Chatham and Aylesford MP Tracey Crouch has previously urged the plans to be thrown out, saying: "There's already a significant number of hot and cold food outlets in Snodland.

"I don't see why this is one is needed, particularly when there's the proposed development of McDonald's and Costa Coffee in a more appropriate location on the other side of Snodland."

More than 300 locals have responded to KFC's planning application, little more than two dozen voicing their support.

But a KentOnline poll of more than 1,100 people found the majority would like to see a KFC in the town.

If given the green light the restaurant would include a drive thru lane, 29 car parking spaces and would create 45 part and full time jobs.

Plans for KFC to move into the Oast House in Snodland
Plans for KFC to move into the Oast House in Snodland

The Oast House earmarked for development has been empty since early 2018 when it was vacated by Britannia windows.

TMBC's Area 3 Planning Committee will meet at the council office's in Kings Hill at 7.30pm tonight.

Read more: All the latest news from Malling.

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