McDonald's makes bid for second Borders restaurant

A council has welcomed plans from McDonald's to open a second restaurant in its area.

The burger giant currently only has one drive-through in the Borders, in Galashiels, but it now plans a £4m investment in Hawick which it said could create up to 100 full and part-time jobs.

Scottish Borders Council's executive member for economic growth Scott Hamilton said it was a "prime example" of how new land could be unlocked for business growth.

A major flood protection scheme was completed in the town recently at an overall cost of more than £100m.

Scottish Borders Council (SBC) said the proposed restaurant - beside two supermarkets in the town - would "increase choice and convenience for shoppers".

Mr Hamilton added: "SBC is committed to working with partners to ensure that developments like this deliver lasting benefits for Hawick's economy and community."

McDonald's was previously granted permission on the site back in 2020 - but the development did not go ahead.

A planning application is expected to be submitted to the local authority in the new year.