A controversial fast-food restaurant being built in a supermarket car park is suddenly taking shape.

The new branch of McDonald's, which will be the burger chain's third location in Folkestone, has been quickly erected in Cheriton close to the M20 and Channel Tunnel.

It has taken builders a matter of days to throw up the new two-storey structure, which appears to be made up of pre-fabricated sections assembled on site.

One Cheriton resident said: "I drove past on Thursday and they were still working on the foundations but there was a big crane on site.

"Then yesterday all of a sudden the whole building had appeared out of nowhere. It must have been pre-assembled.

"It can't be too long until it opens now. It's going to be very busy - hope traffic isn't too much of a nightmare."

The new drive-thru was at the centre of a long-running planning saga, as people living nearby expressed their opposition to the plans for a further McDonald's branch in the town.

Councillors on Folkestone and Hythe District Council's (FHDC) planning committee voted against the scheme in December 2020.

Members refused the development based on their concerns about highway safety and sustainability.

Fears were also raised over increased litter, pollution and noise in the area as a result of the new restaurant.

Despite planning officers recommending approval, the application was refused by councillors, with five voting in favour and seven against.

The decision to reject the proposals was appealed to the Planning Inspectorate, and its review of the plans led to the scheme getting the go-ahead.

McDonald's has said the new location could create more than 60 jobs. The firm is currently advertising positions at the new restaurant.

It is not yet known when it will be open to the public.