Havering Council has refused planning permission for KFC, in South Street, to stay open until 4am each day, including public and bank holidays.
The fast food restaurant currently operates until 1am between Monday and Saturday, and until midnight on Sunday.
It had applied to change a condition in its premises licence to allow it to serve customers until the early hours.
However, a planning officer concluded that, if granted, the proposal would cause “increased levels of noise and disturbance” to people living nearby.
They added that this would be “unacceptably detrimental” to neighbouring properties, especially as the plans were for a 4am closing time every day of the week.
The planning officer’s report referenced a similar application for Pepe’s, at 172-174 South Street, which was refused and dismissed on appeal in 2022 – and was seeking a shorter extension than KFC.
The report also revealed that eight objections were lodged against the proposal, raising concerns it would lead to “more antisocial behaviour” and encourage “unhealthy eating patterns”.
Cllr David Taylor, who represents the St Edwards ward, objected to the longer opening hours via email, arguing that it would have a “negative impact” on the quality of life for residents and on the character of the town centre as a whole.
Following the decision, Cllr Taylor said he was “pleased” the council rejected the plans.
In a post on Facebook he said: “KFC wanted to open until 4am.
“This would prove a disturbance to those living above the store and nearby.
“I do think that those living in a busy town centre should expect some noise.
“But nothing in Romford is open until 4am, and a chicken shop is not night life.”
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In the original application, agent Walsingham Planning wrote on behalf of KFC that the proposal was intended to “deliver a range of commercial benefits to both the site and the wider area”.
They stated: “These include the provision of late-night food services for individuals working unsociable hours, the creation of additional employment opportunities, and broader support for the local economy.
“Given its nature and location, the proposal is considered appropriate and well-aligned with the operational requirements for the applicant.”
