Residents living near a former KFC in West London are urging the landlord not to lease the vacant property to another fast-food operator, fearing a return to the litter problems experienced under previous management. The unit at 171 Uxbridge Road, Shepherd's Bush, has been empty since earlier this year after decades of operation as a KFC.
Community Concerns Over Litter and Safety
Locals report that the area has improved significantly since the KFC closed, with reduced rubbish and an enhanced sense of safety. A survey of 74 residents conducted by campaigners found that the vast majority noticed less litter, and most reported an improved feeling of security. Brian Sherry, 76, who has lived in the area for over 60 years, stated: "The biggest problem for me was the rubbish. They would sit outside my house and just throw the rubbish in the street." He added that while litter hasn't disappeared entirely, it is "not near as bad as what it was."
Joy Nichols, 76, described the former KFC as a "landmark" that attracted customers from afar, but noted that the crowds contributed to littering. Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, explained that the site became more of a drive-in than a takeaway, with customers parking, eating, and discarding rubbish from their cars despite bins provided by KFC.
Landlord and Planning Concerns
The property is owned by Raja Adil, who runs Adilsons Properties and The Adil Group. Neither responded to requests for comment. The site is currently being marketed by agents Four Prop as a "restaurant to let." Residents fear that under planning laws, a new operator could take over the existing use without submitting a fresh application to the council, potentially leading to another fast-food outlet.
Residents have written directly to Mr. Adil asking him to "consider the community's experience" but have received no response. Caroline Scott, a local campaigner, said: "We have the evidence, we have the police data, and we have the overwhelming support of the local schools and this community. What we don't yet have is the legal mechanism to make it stick. That has to change."
Positive Developments on Uxbridge Road
Despite the concerns, residents acknowledge positive changes in the area. The upcoming opening of Talli Queen, a restaurant by chef Avinsha Shahidhara, and the recent success of the Hawthorn pub are seen as signs of a transformation. Councillor Zarar Qayyum, Hammersmith and Fulham Labour's business lead, commented: "Uxbridge Road is undergoing a transformation. We are seeing new businesses open that offer residents a greater diversity of options, alongside a range of improvements that are making the street safer, cleaner, and more accessible."
He added: "The vacant site at 171 Uxbridge Road represents another opportunity, and I hope it follows the same positive trend and attracts an ambitious tenant to be part of this exciting chapter for the street." Residents remain hopeful that the landlord will choose a tenant that benefits the community, rather than another takeaway.
