Residents of Worcester Park are bracing for potential noise disruption as KFC seeks permission to extend late-night delivery hours at its branch on Central Road, with more than 30 objections lodged against the proposal. The fast-food chain has applied to Sutton Council to allow deliveries until 1am from Monday to Thursday and until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays, sparking fears of 'deafening' moped noise disturbing residential streets.
Proposed hours and delivery-only operation
Under the plans, the KFC outlet at 114 Central Road would operate for deliveries only during the extended hours, with no public access or in-person collections after midnight on weekdays or after 1am on weekends. This means that while the restaurant would remain open for delivery drivers, customers would not be able to enter the premises or collect orders during these late-night periods.
Residents' objections cite noise and sleep disruption
More than two dozen residents have formally objected, citing concerns about revving motorbikes, loud conversations, and sleepless nights. One objector, whose name was redacted, said: 'The noise from this service is distressing enough as it is. What will happen when there is no ambient noise to disperse the impact of activities?' Another resident warned of 'deafening engine noise' from mopeds starting, idling, and revving deep into the night, along with laughing and shouting from delivery drivers.
Residents also fear the branch could become a late-night delivery hub, attracting couriers from a wider area as nearby outlets close earlier. The nearest comparable drive-thru offering late-night delivery is in Colliers Wood, approximately five miles away, which could make Worcester Park a focal point for delivery activity.
Previous disturbances and enforcement concerns
Objections are partly based on alleged previous disturbances, including commercial waste collections taking place in the early hours. One resident described existing late-night disruption as 'destroying the sleep and well-being of local children and families,' adding: 'I base this on sleep deprivation as a form of abuse.' Another objector raised concerns about the impact on their neurodivergent child, stating that increased noise could affect their ability to sleep and that the plans fail to consider how residents on this residential road will be affected, calling the situation 'intolerable.'
KFC's proposed code of conduct
In response, franchise operator K&Z South London Ltd has proposed a strict code of conduct requiring delivery drivers to switch off their engines and avoid congregating while waiting for orders. However, objectors have questioned how these measures would be enforced and what control Sutton Council would have over the company's guidelines.
Licensing committee decision pending
The report confirms that no responsible authorities, including the Metropolitan Police and Environmental Health, have submitted formal objections. Sutton Council's Licensing Sub-Committee will consider representations from KFC and objectors at a meeting on August 10, with a decision expected within five working days of the hearing.
