PLANS for a new McDonald’s restaurant and takeaway in the Borders have been approved.

The proposals will see the chain open a fast-food outlet on Commercial Road in Hawick.

Along with the McDonald’s drive thru, the site will see a B&M store added after Scottish ministers approved the plans, subject to conditions.

Scottish Borders Council was happy to grant the application back in January, but the local authority was required to notify the proposals to ministers because there was an unresolved objection by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) in respect of flood risk.

READ MORE: Borders cinema celebrates 'sharper images and richer sound' after upgrades

Aldi, whose store is located on the street, also objected to the plans.

Now, however, Scottish ministers have approved the proposals, provided McDonald’s satisfies a number of requirements.

The government report stated the “proposed development would have a neutral effect on flood risk”.

The Borders currently has one McDonald’s, based in Galashiels.

There is another just over the border in Berwick-upon-Tweed.