KFC finally opens its doors in Buckshaw Village - but concerns over the business remain

The new KFC in the foreground of Trinity CE Methodist Primary School (Images: JPIMedia)

A controversial fried chicken shop has finally opened its doors across from a primary school – and the discussion about its pros and cons for the local area don't seem to be fading soon.

A new KFC opened its doors in Buckshaw Village today after months of toing-and-froing between politicians, residents, and the food outlet.

The restaurant off Buckshaw Avenue in Barnes Wallis Way, which was given the green light by Chorley Council last March despite more than 40 objections, has been criticised for being within walking distance of Trinity CE Methodist Primary School.

Chorley and Lancashire County Coun Mark Perks, who represents Buckshaw, previously said it “isn’t appropriate” to have a fast food outlet across from a school, adding it is “encouraging people to eat unhealthily”.

Speaking today, County Coun Perks added: “Those who welcome the takeaway to the village clearly do not live next to it or show respect towards those residents that do.”

Chorley Coun Matthew Lynch, who represents Astley and Buckshaw, acknowledged issues residents have with the franchise being across from the school, but said parents must play their part in educating youngsters.

Coun Lynch said: “For me, while it is across from a primary school, there is a lot of parental responsibility. It will be parents taking children to KFC.

“The amount of primary school children going there on their own will be minor. It’s down to getting an education – a healthy education – and parental responsibility.”