Fast-food giant McDonald’s has opened its latest Kent branch.

The chain welcomed customers to its new restaurant in Swanley Square Shopping Centre yesterday (November 20).

The opening of the 47-seater restaurant has created around 60 new full and part-time jobs for the local community and will feature table service, self-ordering kiosks and a 16-seat outside patio area.

The branch has been built in line with the chain’s Convenience of the Future programme, which aims to create a seamless and enjoyable experience for customers through its layout.

There is a dedicated courier waiting area which will allow workers to serve them quickly, efficiently and accurately.

The restaurant has implemented a number of sustainable innovations, as the business is working towards a target of achieving net zero emissions across all its restaurants and offices by 2030.

All the furniture at the new branch is made in the UK with locally sourced materials reducing the carbon footprint of the manufacture and transport from abroad.

Recycled content has also been used for some of the ceiling tiles.

As well as this, wall lettering and toilet signage has been made from recycled materials and the chain will be using ultra energy-efficient HVAC systems and low-energy hand dryers.

Plans for the fast-food restaurant were first submitted earlier this year and were approved in May, subject to conditions.

The building was last occupied by Barclays Bank, which closed in November 2021, and sits opposite The Cedars doctors’ surgery.

The existing car park and service yard access along Nightingale Way has also been reconfigured.

There are now 70 car parking spaces including eight disabled spaces and three for parents with children.

There are also now three parallel parking spaces at the front of Unit 30 and five spaces for motorbikes.

The new branch will be open between 7am and 11pm, seven days a week.

Franchisee Greg Abbott, who now owns and operates 10 McDonald’s restaurants in Kent, said: “We are delighted to be opening another brand-new McDonald’s restaurant in Swanley and can’t wait to see local customers, both new and old, enjoy our services on offer.

“People are at the heart of our business, and we look forward to welcoming new employees with the jobs our restaurant will create.

“We’re committed to investing in opportunities for a mix of all ages, life stages and backgrounds, promoting flexibility and equality.

“It’s particularly exciting to be opening this new restaurant as McDonald’s celebrates its 50th year in the UK.”