McDonald's drives through bid for longer opening times

A McDONALD'S restaurant in the Capital is set to be allowed to extend its hours for a one-year trial.

The fast-food chain had applied to extend the opening hours of its Telford Road outlet in Craigleith, by opening two hours earlier, at 6am, and closing one hour later, at midnight.

But the proposal has been met with strong opposition in the area and more than a dozen objections have been sent to the council.

Alan Denham, a member of the Craigleith/Blackhall Community Council, said: "We acknowledge that economic circumstances are challenging in the recession for many firms, including multinationals.

"However, the amenity of adjacent residential properties should not and must not be outweighed by such considerations."

Residents said they were concerned about noise, litter and antisocial behaviour.

John Bury, the council's head of planning, said: "The applicant has suggested a temporary trial period of one year and Services for Communities are supportive of that.

"Should the proposal prove to be a problem, there are powers available under the Environmental Protection Act to take action."