Burger King drive-thru could create traffic gridlock

May 15 2009 By Russell Butt

Egham Chamber of Commerce has warned of potential gridlock after a Burger King drive-thru was approved at the busy Runnymede roundabout.

An application from Caspian Food Services Ltd for the fast food takeaway at the site of The Iguana pub in Egham, was granted by Runnymede councillors on May 13.

But members of Egham Chamber of Commerce are expressing concerns about litter and say the drive-thru lane could exacerbate traffic at the roundabout and down The Avenue.

Egham Hythe councillor, Yvonna Lay, speaking at a planning meeting on Wednesday, said: "There's four lanes coming onto that roundabout and only three lanes going round it. This application could potentially knock out the inside lane and leave just two lanes going round.

"If there's any kind of problem on the M3 or the M25, I think it will create a huge problem that will completely gridlock that roundabout."

After the meeting, Egham Chamber of Commerce member, Cynthia Reilly, said the council's decision was disappointing for the chamber and residents of the town who could be adversely affected.

She said: "This result will only serve to further exacerbate the existing traffic congestion at the Runnymede roundabout. The Surrey Highways Department have significantly failed to take full account of traffic reports or the situation on the ground, particularly in the light of the proposed Airtrack project.

"Add the additional planning application for gravel extraction at Milton Farm Park which will bring a large number of HGV lorries into and through the town. The thought of a Burger King being at the 'gateway' to Egham is an anathema to the majority of residents."

What do you think? Do you welcome a Burger King drive-thru at the roundabout or will it be bad for the area? Post a comment below.