PLANS to open a new Taco Bell drive-through restaurant in Birstall have been granted by Kirklees Council.

The approval means work can now begin to transform the former Bella Italia restaurant at Centre 27 Business Park, opposite the retail park, into a Taco Bell.

The plans will see changes made to the appearance of the building and also alterations to the car park to allow for a drive-through system to be created.

It will be the latest fast food restaurant to open at the Birstall retail and shopping park site, joining the existing McDonald’s and KFC restaurants, and the upcoming Tim Horton’s; there are also Frankie & Benny’s, Chiquito, Pizza Express, TGI Friday’s, Nando’s Zizzi, Caffe Nero, Starbucks and Krispy Kreme outlets on the sprawling site.

One person had objected to the plans raising concerns over increased traffic in the area, especially with plans for a Lidl and Home Bargains due to be submitted at some point, but planning officers granted the plans full permission.