The proposal by McDonald's to locate its 69th Irish outlet in Ennis would bring to 10 the number of fast-food outlets in the town.
With a population of over 22,000, Ennis is currently served by nine separate outlets, including three operated by chains, Supermacs, Abrakebabra and Domino Pizzas.
Ennis Town Council confirmed yesterday that the proposed McDonald's restaurant is the first application for a sit-down fast-food outlet to come before the planning authority in a number of years.
The proposed McDonald's is located one kilometre from Ennis town centre and, along with objections over possible health impacts on local children, the plan has also run into opposition from local residents' groups who have expressed concern over the traffic impact of the development.
The plan by McDonald's is the second proposed for Co Clare. The first opened in Shannon town in December 2002. That restaurant did not attract the attention of the Mid-Western Health Board during the planning process when three objections - none health related - were lodged unsuccessfully against the plan.
