THE doors of a fast-food restaurant are due to swing open today after years of long anticipation.

McDonald’s is finally opening up its new store in Ulverston today – much to the delight of hungry customers.

Burger-lovers will be able to enjoy their Big Macs from work as building work concludes on the Oubas Hill site.

Bob Brown, mayor of Ulverston, said he welcomes the employment opportunities the new restaurant has brought to Ulverston.

He said: “I fully understand that McDonalds isn't everyone's food of choice and that this new restaurant has caused quite a debate in the town, but I have no doubt that many people in the town and surrounding area will be very pleased at this extra choice.

“I welcome the increase in employment opportunities for the people of Ulverston and wish it every success.”

READ MORE: Final touches made on soon-to-open McDonald's in Ulverston

Construction work finally begun on building the fast-food giant at the end of July after more than two years of delays.

The site, containing a restaurant and drive-thru, is expected to create at least 65 full and part-time jobs for local people.

McDonald’s chiefs had previously revealed the site would be set to open before mid-2020 after they were given the green light by South Lakeland District Council’s planning committee in June 2019.

However, after nearly two years of delays, bosses behind the fast-food chain have now said they are opening the restaurant today.

When the plans to open a McDonald's were first brought to SLDC, there were 157 letters of objection, plus 47 letters and a petition in support.

However, the planning committee still recommended the fast-food giant for approval.

Concerns from objectors were raised over the impact on local businesses, consequent environmental and health factors such as litter-dropping and obesity levels, as well as the new site affecting traffic congestion on the nearby A590.

READ MORE: Decision made on premises licence for Ulverston McDonald's

McDonald's is to be open until midnight each day after a premises licence was granted by the councill.

The licensing sub-committee, meeting at South Lakeland House, Kendal, granted McDonald's opening hours of 6.30am to midnight every day of the week at the Ulverston site.