If approved, the drive-thru would bring an estimated investment of £4 million to the town.

The restaurant would be built on land at the Balmacassie Industrial Estate, across from the Tesco superstore.

McDonald’s recently undertook a review of its restaurant portfolio and wanted to add new locations. The fast food company said it has “long held an aspiration” to open a site in Ellon, the Scotsman reports.

Plans submitted to the council indicate that a a single-storey drive-thru restaurant would be constructed as well as parking for 19 cars, including two accessible spaces and room for bikes.

Outdoor seating is also expected to be provided to allow customers to eat outside in the summer.

A public consultation event was held at the end of March and residents were also encouraged to share their views online. A total of 1,139 responses were received and 91% of people were in full or partial support of the drive-thru.