Planning approval has now been given for the brightly lit McDonald’s signs at the new drive-thru site off Lows Lane at New Stanton Park – despite the lights having already been switched on before the decision was made.
Erewash Borough Council confirmed the approval on 23 December 2025, giving the green light to a wide range of signage at the new restaurant, including roof-mounted logos, a tall drive-thru totem, digital order boards and illuminated service point signs.
Many residents had already noticed the glowing Golden Arches and other signs lighting up the site in the evenings, even though the restaurant itself is not yet open.
So why were the lights already on?
According to the council’s own planning report, the signs were already in place and illuminated while the application was still being considered.
Normally, illuminated signs need permission before they are switched on. However, councils can choose whether or not to take enforcement action, and in this case planners decided the signs were acceptable and approved them after the fact.
Local concerns raised
One resident from nearby Stanton by Dale objected to the plans, raising concerns about light pollution, extra traffic, litter and possible impacts on wildlife.
However, Derbyshire County Council’s highways team said the signs would not affect road safety, and environmental health officers raised no objections.
Planning officers concluded that the signs are typical of a modern McDonald’s restaurant and suitable for a newly developed commercial area.
When will the McDonald’s actually open?
Although the site looks close to being finished, the restaurant’s opening has been delayed.
The store had originally been expected to open this month, but problems with the site have pushed the launch back. It is now expected to open early next year, once the remaining issues have been sorted.
Five-year approval
The advertising permission has been granted for five years, meaning the signs can stay in place until at least 2030, as long as they follow the approved plans and brightness limits.
While the decision only covers signage, the fact that the lights were already on before permission was granted is likely to catch the attention of local residents – particularly those living nearby.