By Oscar Olesen, reporter

Recent crime statistics have revealed staggering levels of crime centred around McDonalds restaurants in Kent. Branches in Kent have faced mounting issues, ranging from acts of armed violence to closures and proposal rejections in urban areas. 

McDonalds outlets in Kent have called the police 4,814 times in the past 2 and a half years. The Canterbury high street branch had 379 incidents (3 per week), which is the highest in the county. Chatham is ranked third with 336 crimes reported, while Gillingham is ranked 6th with 240. These statistics have led to calls for the company to have its 24 hour service license removed.

The Gillingham high street restaurant closed on July 31st, providing its employees with alternative employment at other branches. The restaurant had a history of violence and crime, which prompted the outlet to hire security staff preventing youths from entering after midnight. 

Kent police stated that they were aware of anti-social behavior concerns in Medway, and had taken steps to mitigate crime: 

“Officers from the Medway Community Safety Unit have met with managers of businesses in the area to provide them with crime prevention advice, including recruiting door staff at suitable hours to prevent disturbances.” 

The police also stated that the area is subject to increased patrols from officers, and that anyone with concerns about anti-social behaviour should report incidents to Kent police immediately. 

One of the worst incidents of violence in Kent happened at the Gravesend McDonalds, where a teenager was chased into the restaurant and stabbed repeatedly by two older men in front of horror-struck witnesses. Similar incidents prompted the construction of a metal detector in the entrance to a McDonalds in Woolwich, setting a dire example for branches built in crime ridden areas. 

The expansion of McDonalds outlets in Kent has also come up against resistance, as Dartford Borough Council has been told to reject a drive-thru proposal for the 30-year-old Greenhithe branch. The site submitted an application to add a drive-thru lane onto the premises, but is likely to be refused for its “significant detrimental impact on the character and appearance of the area.” 

The McDonalds Press Office sent us this statement regarding their stance on crime in their restaurants: “The safety and security of our people and customers is of the utmost importance to us. We therefore take a zero tolerance approach when it comes to crime and anti-social behaviour in and around our restaurants. We work very closely with the local police, community and safer towns partnerships to tackle any ongoing issues.” 

As background information, the press office also stated that their restaurants are often located in high-traffic areas, which make them an easily recognizable landmark for members of the public who need to direct police or ambulances to an emergency. Due to this, many incidents are recorded as having taken place near a McDonalds, which in reality aren’t directly related to the restaurant.

An employee working at the Minster Services McDonalds, who wishes to remain anonymous, contacted us with a more positive outlook on his work environment. 

“I know there have been some people kicking off about the conditions and pay, but in general I have no major issues with the way in which my franchise at least is managed. 

“It’s a high pressure work environment, so people can get angry sometimes but I have never seen intimidating or violent behaviour from the staff. The vast majority of customers we serve are perfect and just want food but occasionally we get some difficult ones. But that’s just part and parcel of working in the service industry.” 

In light of the recent strikes by McDonalds workers across the country, the future of branches in Kent still remains uncertain.