Roadside operators receive green light for Unity development

Two new drive-thrus are heading to one of Yorkshire’s largest regeneration schemes following positive planning decisions.

Unity, which lies adjacent to junction 5 of the M18 motorway, will launch a McDonald’s restaurant and a Starbucks drive-thru in 2025, after plans were given the green light by Doncaster Council.

Extending to over 618 acres, Unity is being delivered by Waystone Hargreaves Land LLP, and will comprise of over 3,000 homes, industrial and commercial development together with a new local centre and community facilities.

Due to open in late summer 2025, the new 4,500 sq.ft McDonald’s restaurant will be situated on land to the east of Connect Drive and north of Unity Way, within the ‘Unity Connect’ zone of the development. The restaurant will bring 110 jobs and significant investment to the local area.

The 1,840 sq.ft Starbucks drive-thru is also expected to open in September 2025 and will sit adjacent to the new McDonald’s and 4 EV charging points. Over 15 jobs are expected to be created.

Andrew Johnson, director at Waystone Hargreaves Land LLP, said: “Popular roadside amenities are a vital component in the creation of viable and self-sufficient mixed-use developments. We look forward to the new Starbucks and McDonald’s opening next year to provide a destination for employees and visitors, as well as benefiting the local residents of Hatfield, Stainforth and Dunscroft.”

A McDonald’s spokesperson said: “We are excited about the opportunity to open a new restaurant in Doncaster next year, bringing significant investment and up to 110 full and part-time jobs to the local area.”