The McDonald’s empire continues its expansion in Basildon, as plans for an eighth restaurant have been submitted. Having recently proposed two new locations in the area, McDonald’s now eyes the former High Street Prezzo in Wickford for its next venture.
If approved, this move, alongside plans for additional sites in London Road, Basildon, and Northlands Pavement, Pitsea, would bring the total number of McDonald’s restaurants in the borough to eight. The proximity of the Northlands Pavement site to an existing McDonald’s in Pitsea Retail Park has raised concerns about the impact on public health due to increased availability of fast food options.
Despite these concerns, David Harrison, leader of Wickford Independents, views the development positively. He supports the transformation of the empty Prezzo space, stating, “To fill up an empty space, especially the large space left by Prezzo, is a bonus and to bring another national name into the town.” Harrison also emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness to ensure community acceptance.
While there are several McDonald’s establishments already in Basildon borough, the proposed Wickford location would be the first of its kind in the town. Positioned three miles away from the nearest McDonald’s in Mayflower Retail Park, the potential success of the new restaurant hinges on effective marketing and competition with neighboring eateries like Tony’s, an Italian restaurant that has thrived despite Prezzo’s closure.
Prezzo ceased operations on Wickford High Street in 2023 as part of a broader closure strategy across the UK, leaving the location vacant since then.