Julian Knight, Conservative parliamentary candidate joined local Councillor Gary Allport and protesters around the site of a proposed KFC on the Stratford Road in Shirley at the weekend.
The global restaurant chain wants to build a late night take away on the site of the Etrinsic building right next to Shirley Heath School.
These plans were successfully fought off by local residents, Julian and Conservative Councillors - in particular, Shirley South Councillor Peter Doyle, who spoke at the original planning committee meeting on 24th April.
However, KFC have now appealed to the Secretary of State to have the Council’s decision overturned.
Julian Knight said: “The plans to plonk the KFC on a pinch point for local traffic and right next to a school were rightly rejected by the council and I urge the Secretary of State to do likewise.”
“I am furious that KFC - having heard the opposition of the people of Shirley - have decided to take their case to the top. Not only will we see much heavier traffic locally, but putting a KFC right next to a school sends out totally the wrong public health message for our children.”
In addition, local residents have said they are concerned about litter and pollution from the site as well as late night noise.
Local Councillor, Peter Doyle added; “I am disappointed that KFC have taken this to appeal and I too will be writing to the Inspector. I also plan to speak at the public hearing. Residents can be assured that we are united in our opposition to this proposal and we will fight to the end.”
Julian Knight has written to object to the development and has vowed to continue the fight along with residents and the local councillor team.
Julian has also written to local residents to express his support for their campaign.