A NEW McDonald's set to open in Ulverston will be serving Big Macs before the middle of next year, bosses have revealed.

Plans to build a McDonald's restaurant by Booth’s supermarket at Oubas Hill are finally coming into fruition as construction work is due to start in the upcoming months.

McDonald's bosses revealed the Ulverston site is set to open before mid-2020 after they were given the green light by the South Lakeland District Council’s planning committee last month.

The site, containing a restaurant and drive-thru, is expected to create at least 30 full time and 20 part time jobs.

A McDonald’s spokesperson said: "We were delighted to be granted planning permission for a new restaurant in Ulverston last month and we are aiming to start building works in the next few months with a target to open before mid-2020.

"The restaurant will create at least 65 full and part time jobs for local people as well as offering our great tasting food for customers and we look forward to playing a positive role in the Ulverston community.”

In response to the plans, there were 157 letters of objection, plus 47 letters and a petition in support and SLDC planners had recommended approval.

Concerns from objectors were raised over the impact on local businesses, consequent environmental and health factors such as litter-dropping and obesity levels as well as the new site affecting traffic congestion on the nearby A590.

Ulverston Town Councillor, Mark Wilson said: "I'm very pleased with the upcoming start date.

"I think the more jobs sooner the better.

"It seems McDonald's is keen to get started as soon as possible which is great for our town."

Cllr Wilson believes the franchise has adapted their food to suit a healthier generation.

He said: "McDonald's definitely has a market out there and have improved the food quality to suit a more heath-conscious consumer.

"In terms of the obesity complaints, I don't think people are stupid enough to eat McDonald's every day of the week.

"It is a treat for special occasions."

Cllr Wilson said the town will welcome the upcoming opening date.

"I think everyone will be well suited to this outcome", he said.

"McDonald's alongside an M&S Food Hall and Aldi give people a much wider choice for both visitors and residents."

The McDonald’s is set to be positioned in Booth carpark where the current recycling facilities lie.