Letterkenny could be getting a new McDonald’s restaurant and drive-thru, with planning permission sought for a second outlet on the town’s Port Road.
A site beside Rossview Business Park and the Polestar Roundabout has been designated as the potential home of the restaurant.
But it will be at least the new year before work can begin on any new Golden Arches outlet.
Local developer PJ McDermott is seeking permission to demolish a two-storey house and a single-storey commercial building to make way for the single-storey drive-through restaurant and car park.
The application shows that the existing McDonald’s restaurant off the Pearse Road will continue to operate and that the owner will make efficient use of their service vehicle fleet by conducting ‘drops’ at both restaurants in the one journey.
Donegal County Council gave the green light for the development in August, subject to 19 conditions including the limiting of opening hours to 8am – 11pm.
However, the plans have faced a new setback with an appeal lodged by nearby business owner, Eddie Tobin.
Mr Tobin has objected to the development due to traffic concerns, including the site’s proximity to the Polestar roundabout. He states that vehicles coming from the roundabout will turn into third-party properties because there is no right turn into the proposed site.
Mr Tobin also objects to the proposed traffic management system and the design of the building, which he believes lacks “architectural quality”.
The plans and appeal are now being considered by An Coimisiún Pleanála. The case is due to be decided in the new year.
Donegal’s first and only McDonald’s has been operating in Letterkenny since November 12, 1999.
Loving it! Second McDonald’s on the menu for Letterkenny was last modified: September 11th, 2025 by Rachel McLaughlin
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