Concerns Rise Over ‘Deafening’ Moped Noise as South London KFC Unveils Late-Night Delivery Service

Residents of Worcester Park have expressed significant concerns regarding a proposal from KFC to extend its late-night delivery hours, fearing that the noise from delivery mopeds will create a “deafening” disturbance in the area. The fast-food chain has submitted an application to Sutton Council to operate deliveries until 1am from Monday to Thursday and until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays at its location on Central Road.

Over two dozen local residents have voiced their objections to the plans, highlighting the potential for increased noise from revving motorbikes, loud conversations, and sleepless nights in the neighbouring residential streets. According to the proposal, deliveries would be the only service offered during the extended hours, with no public access or in-person collections permitted after midnight on weekdays or after 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Residents Voice Concerns Over Noise Disruption

In reports submitted ahead of the licensing meeting scheduled for August 10, residents have detailed their grievances. One resident, who chose to remain anonymous, remarked, “The noise from this service is distressing enough as it is. What will happen when there is no ambient noise to dilute the impact of these activities?” This sentiment was echoed by another objector, who expressed worries about the expected increase in “deafening engine noise” along the high street, with delivery drivers potentially causing disruptions late into the night.

Concerns have also been raised over the behaviour of delivery drivers, with reports of loud laughter, shouting, and conversations contributing to the noise levels. There is a fear that the KFC branch could transform into a late-night delivery hub, drawing in couriers from a broader area as other outlets close earlier. Residents have noted that the nearest drive-thru with similar late-night delivery options is located roughly five miles away in Colliers Wood.

Previous Disturbances Fuel Opposition

Many objections are rooted in previous disturbances linked to the KFC branch, including early-morning commercial waste collections that have disrupted local residents. One resident articulated their frustration, stating that the existing late-night activities are “destroying the sleep and well-being of local children and families,” describing sleep deprivation as a form of abuse. Another objector, concerned about their neurodivergent child, emphasised that the anticipated increase in noise could severely affect their ability to sleep, arguing that the potential impact on residents has not been adequately considered.

Defending the proposal, K&Z South London Ltd, the franchise operator, has outlined a strict code of conduct for delivery drivers, which includes directives to switch off engines and avoid gathering while waiting for orders. However, objectors have raised questions regarding the enforcement of these measures and the extent of Sutton Council’s oversight of the company’s operational guidelines.

Awaiting Council Decision

Despite the local opposition, the report indicates that no formal objections have been submitted by responsible authorities, including the Metropolitan Police and Environmental Health. The Licensing Sub-Committee of Sutton Council is set to consider the representations from both KFC and the objectors at the upcoming meeting, with a decision anticipated within five working days following the hearing.

For residents interested in further details regarding planning applications, traffic changes, and licensing matters in their area, they can enter their postcode or visit the Public Notice Portal for more information.