KFC is set to open a new outlet in a long-vacant former Pizza Hut building in Palatine, Illinois, US.   

The new franchise outlet, which will have a drive-through, has been granted a special use permit to take over the site at 1597 N Rand Road by the Palatine Village Council, as reported by the Daily Herald.  

Described as an eyesore, the property will undergo changes with the existing building set to be demolished, clearing the way for the construction of a new KFC.

The council’s decision also included the consolidation of the 2.2-acre property lots to three from five.  

KFC’s franchisee, KBP Brands, plans to raze the building, leaving only the slab intact, with all vertical structures to be newly constructed.  

According to village documents, the area also includes establishments owned by Dawn Lafreeda, which operates Den-Tex Central, managing the nearby Denny’s. 

The new KFC is part of KBP’s expansion portfolio, which includes 55 KFCs in Chicago.  

KFC received support as the village commission has unanimously recommended council approval to bring the brand to the Palatine community.  

KBP representative Alan Okon told Palatine’s planning and zoning commission: “The existing building has been there for quite a while. We know it’s an eyesore. We’re not here to renovate it. We’re here to knock it down and build something brand new.” 

Palatine planning and zoning director Ben Vyverberg said: “It has been underutilised for many years. It’s been waiting to be redeveloped. ” The building has not been occupied since 2020.