The opening of the first McDonald's restaurant in Rutland - approved for Oakham tonight (Tues) - will not change the county according to Coun Gordon Brown, the county council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning.

Speaking after the planning and licensing committee meeting approved the application for the fast-food outlet and drive-thru on land at Hawkesmead Business Estate, off Lands End Way, Coun Brown told Oakham Nub News: "McDonald's is not going to change Rutland.

"It's a very good county - with the beauty of its market towns, historic buildings and Rutland Water - and McDonald's won't affect that in any way."

He added that an 'overiding factor' for council officers in recommending approval and committee members approving the application was that it would create 45 full-time equivalent jobs.

"If the same space had been taken up by another business - such as warehousing or offices - it would not have created as many jobs," he added.

In a statement released by Rutland County Council Coun Brown added: "We take great care when considering major applications of this kind and a huge amount of work has gone into preparing the incredibly detailed report that was presented to members of our Planning Committee.

"I know there are lots of people, both inside and outside of Rutland, who have strong opinions about whether or not there should be a McDonald's in the county.

"It's the job of planning officers and the Planning Committee to look at every application objectively and dispassionately.

"We have to be impartial and can only make decisions based on whether or not an application complies with the relevant national and local planning policies.

"In the case of McDonald's, the development put forward has been approved because it would not have an adverse impact on neighbouring homes and businesses, or the character of the surrounding area, and will create a significant number of new jobs on land that is set aside for employment, rather than houses."