Fast food chain KFC had its application for a new outlet thrown out last night after councillors ruled it would have an “adverse effect on nearby amenities”.

More than 100 traders and residents signed a petition opposing the proposed takeaway restaurant, in High Street, Hampton Hill. And Richmond Council's planning committee received 330 letters opposing the plan.

The committee decided at a meeting that KFC would need to show exceptional circumstances in order to convert the derelict Jenny Lind pub into a fast food outlet.

Campaigners had expressed concern over the prospect of extra traffic, losing a historic building, litter in Bushy Park and groups of youngsters gathering outside.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Jonathon Cardy said the issue had attracted the largest number of complaints over a planning application he had ever seen.

Cliff Harrison, 62, who has run the Daisy Chain cafe, in High Street, for 10 years, said: “We have a small village atmosphere and a big takeaway chain is completely out of character with the area.”

A spokesman for KFC said he could not comment on its application.

But he added: “We always try to have a positive impact in the communities where we operate, and work with planners to ensure that our restaurants fit in with the local streetscape."

He said all KFC restaurants carry out regular litter picks, raise money for the United Nations’ World Food Programme and have energy-saving initiatives including reduced lighting and increased insulation.

He said: "Most importantly of all we provide jobs and careers for people within these communities creating up to 30 jobs in the area.”