THE FORMER Manchester Irish Centre on Queens Road is going to be demolished to make way for a drive-through McDonalds.
People living opposite made a vain plea for a children’s play area or a supermarket
Planners agreed the proposal last week and while they were at it also gave the go-ahead for a Frankie and Bennys on a vacant plot next door.
It was inevitable really. The old building (shown above) was sold to The Fort Shopping Centre to help fund the brand spanking new centre just down the road a couple of years ago and it has been shuttered since.
The New Irish Heritage Centre
People living opposite made a vain plea for a children’s play area or a supermarket even and pointed out that neighbouring Salford Council condemns fast food outlets opening near primary schools. There will be two within Happy Meal distance from this one.
They are not convinced either that it fits with Manchester’s Strategic policy SP1 which states that: “Development should make a positive contribution to neighbourhoods of choice, including creating well designed places that enhance or create character, and making a positive contribution to the health, safety and wellbeing of residents.”
According to the planning report: “Local residents and pupils' parents have expressed dismay at the proposed uses in terms of healthy eating. The Agent (GVAs in Manchester) has responded with information regarding nutrition and their involvement in community activities such as sponsoring local football activities.”
It will mean a new drive-through entrance off Queens Road almost opposite the First Group bus depot and transport museum which is a Grade II listed building.
They did manage to stop it being open 24 hours though and the development will create 85 full and part time jobs.
Frankie and Benny’s will be a new neighbour of Nandos and KFC and have an outside eating area.
Now I’m a regular at The Fort. As a nomadic freelance coming in to Manchester from the North it offers a useful pit stop the days I bring the car.
Free car parking for a start, free Wi-Fi at Costa which is always busy. Always. No matter when you go. I don’t know why this is a constant surprise, given that I myself find the place so handy, but it is.
The Irish Centre Before It Became A Boarded Up Eyesore
Then there is a mini Top Shop crammed in the corner of a unit with other outlets but useful if the weather has changed on the journey in and round the way Marks and Sparks for tights and stuff and the cleanest loos in town.
Not the cafe though. For some reason M&S sandwiches don’t taste the same served up on a plate, they have to be eaten in the car from the packet, usually with a bag of crisps as an accompaniment.
Unless of course it’s been a bad day then its Greggs, a greasy paper bag and a feeling of shame.
Where was I?
Yes. The question is does the area need a big drive through McDonalds with an outside terrace and 6am opening? Does anywhere?
