A 'healthy' fast food chain has pulled the plug on its plans for a new drive-thru in Kent - with Burger King understood to be opening instead.

Leon has confirmed it will no longer launch the branch at Discovery Park in Sandwich, despite construction appearing to be complete.

The chain, which offers a menu "inspired by the flavours, variety and natural healthiness of the Mediterranean diet", was preparing to move into the new drive-thru in Montagu Road, close to the existing Starbucks and a petrol station.

When work began in July, it was set to be the third Leon to open in the county – alongside others at Bluewater shopping centre, and at the Eurotunnel services in Folkestone.

But it has now been confirmed that the chain, which is owned by EG Group, has pulled out and will no longer be operating in the town.

The location had previously been listed on the company's website, but has been removed.

It is understood the site will now be occupied by a Burger King restaurant and drive-thru.

The fast food giant - which is also owned by EG Group - has shared job adverts for the site, with both part-time and full-time positions up for grabs.

An opening date for the new restaurant has yet to be confirmed.

Last year, EG Group - which operates over 700 food service outlets - acquired all Leon restaurants, and said it would aim to open 20 sites each year from 2022.

Speaking at the time, Mohsin Issa CBE and Zuber Issa CBE, co-founders and co-CEOs of EG Group, said: “Leon is a fantastic brand that we have long admired.

"As established entrepreneurs in the foodservice retail market ourselves, we have a huge admiration for the business that John and the Leon team have built over the years, and firmly believe that their culture and values closely align with our own."

EG Group already operates hundreds of KFCs, Burger Kings, Subways and Greggs, as well as Starbucks and petrol stations.

The offering at Sandwich Discovery Park has increased over the last few years.

As well as the Starbucks, a KFC also recently opened nearby, as well as a Travelodge hotel.

EG Group has been asked to comment.