Military Chiefs at Catterick, Garrison, the largest British armed forces training estate in the world, is wooing Burger King to set up a new outlet in one of the garrison’s retail estates.
https://youtu.be/zoFlO1h4I88
Actually, Burger King (BK) has other plans, as the fast food giant already submitted an application to the Richmondshire District Council; signifying a plan to build its next restaurant in Colburn, York. Yet Colburn Parish Council has objections to the plan, arguing that more than 20 fast food outlets are already operating in the area.
Moreover, the council contends that locals have not been consulted, considering that another fast food addition will subject the residents to more fumes, noise, smells and increased disturbances.
Minister of Defence Army Officials at Catterick Garrison Urgest BK to Use MoD Land Instead
MoD officials said that there are plans for improvement in Catterick Garrison, which include opening up retail spaces for restaurants. A Burger King outlet in Colburn would undermine such plans as this would drive away not only shoppers, but also soldiers away from the garrison. Besides, Catterick army chiefs deem it better for soldiers not to stray far from the garrison when getting their fix of burger and fries. Colburn, York is about 1.5 miles away from Catterick Garrison.
A letter addressed to the Richmondshire District Council, and written in behalf of the Ministry of Defence, conveys the latter’s opposition to approvals of more out-of-town developments.
“Catterick Garrison already faces competition from the approved out-of-town shopping centre at Scotch Corner so the MoD will keep opposing more out-of-town development.”
Still, there are oppositions to the idea of having a Burger King outlet in Catterick Garrison. Issues about the rising obesity problem in the army base is being raised in some quarters.
Top Military Brass Waging War on Worsening Obesity Among Catterick Soldiers
In 2018, the Royal Dragoon Guards received a directive from the military top brass to watch their calories by not eating buns and pastries at Greggs, UK’s largest bakery chain. Soldiers spotted hanging around and munching calorie laden treats at the local Greggs shop were warned that they will receive marching orders.
The warning was meant to address increasing concerns on overweight troops and the worsening problems of obesity among soldiers stationed at the largest UK military base.
