A NEW McDonald's restaurant will be allowed to open 24/7 despite concerns from residents about litter and antisocial behaviour. 

McDonald's, which will open in Chineham Shopping Centre, submitted a licensing application to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council to serve hot drinks and food between 11pm and 5am. 

A hearing was held by the Basingstoke and Deane licensing sub-committee on Tuesday, April 9, after 23 written objections were received in response.

READ MORE: Flashback: History of Worting School from long-serving heads to digging for Britain

Basingstoke Gazette: Construction at Chineham Shopping Centre

At the hearing, councillors heard that residents had raised concerns about litter and antisocial behaviour, with one saying he 'hasn't met anyone yet who thinks it's a good idea'.

However, the committee has granted the application, subject to conditions imposed on the restaurant. The fast food branch will be required to close external seating areas off to the public, between 11pm and 5am.

In the decision notice, published on Monday, April 15, the committee said: "Whilst the concerns of the local residents who objected to the granting of the licence were noted, the sub-committee held the view that adequate steps had been taken by the applicant to promote the four licensing objectives."

The objectives, which under law, must be addressed when licensing functions are undertaken, are the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance and the protection of children from harm.

A spokesperson for McDonald's reassured the committee that they take litter 'very seriously' and will litter pick three times a day in problem areas, 'whether or not it is generated by their customers'.

SEE ALSO: Convoy marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day to take place in Basingstoke

'High-quality CCTV' will also be installed in 'all publicly accessible areas and external seating areas' as well as 'self-closing' doors to stop noise emanating from the premises.

The spokesperson added that the premises will be operated directly by McDonald's and not by a franchise, with 80-100 'highly trained staff' and managers trained in first aid and conflict management.

They continued: "This restaurant understands that in extending our opening hours we have a duty to the local community and that we continue to protect our staff and customers from danger and harm."