McDonald’s is set to move into an empty drive-thru that was once destined for a healthy fast-food chain.

The burger giant is planning to open a new branch at Discovery Park in Sandwich in a move that will create 120 jobs.

The site on Montagu Road, close to the existing Starbucks and a petrol station, was previously due to be operated by Leon, a healthy food company.

But the chain, which offers a menu "inspired by the flavours, variety and natural healthiness of the Mediterranean diet", pulled the plug in November of last year – despite construction on the branch appearing to be complete.

At that point, it had been thought Burger King may have its eyes on the vacant property.

However, a spokesperson for McDonald’s has now confirmed the company is set to move in after a planning application was submitted for signs displaying the famous golden arches.

An excerpt from the application, which has been submitted to Dover District Council on behalf of McDonald’s by planners Lichfields, confirms the company’s involvement.

It reads: “Permission [to build a drive-thru] was secured with the intention that ‘Leon’, a fast-food chain, would be the future occupier, however the unit was never occupied and opened to the public.

“Our client is now interested in occupying and trading a McDonald’s restaurant in this location.”

KentOnline understands no timescale for the new branch’s opening has been confirmed.

In a statement, a McDonald’s spokesman added: “We’re excited to be progressing the planning application for this site in Sandwich, which would create 120 full and part-time jobs for the community.”

If McDonald’s does open, it will join a number of offerings that have moved in at the former Pfizer base – with 53 firms moving in during 2021, including KFC and Travelodge.

Earlier this year, Saga confirmed plans to establish a hub at the site after closing down its head office in Folkestone.