About 90 new jobs will be created when a pub is converted into a fast-food restaurant.

McDonald's has already started work on the former White Lion pub building in London Road, East Grinstead.

The firm has held planning approval for the scheme for two years. But its start was delayed by negotiations with the private owner of the pub for its purchase.

Expected to be complete by the autumn, the plan includes a drive-through service and a 100-seat restaurant. The planning agreement provides for 30 car parking spaces.

McDonald's spokeswoman Alison Purves said: "We have started work on the scheme and we hope to open in November.

"It will create 90 jobs, split 50-50 between full and part-time."

The opening will answer a call from younger people in the town for a modern fast-food centre.

Ms Purves said: "We are opening there because it is an area where we think we will be popular.

"Public opinion has certainly been very supportive."

The firm says staff will be expected to follow strict guidelines keeping the area around the restaurant clear of litter.

Neighbouring towns of Burgess Hill and Crawley both have branches of the world's biggest fast-food chain.

President of the East Grinstead Chamber of Trade Alexandra Durrant said: "I think there are mixed feelings. It is just another fast-food chain.

"Some people think it's great. Others think it is the worst possible thing that could happen.

"The general view, though, is that if it is going to bring more jobs into the town it will be a good thing."

Mid Sussex Council spokeswoman Janine Bell said: "McDonald's successfully applied for planning approval two years ago."

The restaurant will be one of the more unusual McDonald's sites because, as a conversion, it will keep some features of the pub.