BURGER giant McDonald’s has announced plans to quit Andover town centre in favour of its new out-oftown location on Andover Trade and Leisure Park.

The company’s existing premises will close on 30 January when the new drivethrough and restaurant opens.

The new restaurant, close to the Portway Inn and SCATS store, will bring over 50 new jobs, both full and part-time and all existing staff at the McDonald’s C h a n t r y C e n t r e r e s t a u r a n t will have the opportunity to transfer to the new restaurant.

McDonald’s franchisee in Andover, Steve Radford, said: “The decision was made to find an alternative site with greater opportunity for investment and job creation.

“We are limited in the hours we are able to open the restaurant in the Chantry Centre, which means we have been unable to grow the business and take on new staff.

“The new restaurant on Andover Trade and Leisure Park will enable us to open at a time that is convenient for our customers and subsequently create at least an additional 50 jobs, which will be a huge boost for the local economy.“

As a local businessman, I understand the importance of investing in the community so it’s great to be able to bring new jobs to the area.

“With excellent training programmes and career opportunities, including an apprenticeship scheme, on offer to all of our employees we hope the roles will appeal to a broad spectrum of people across the local area.”