LONDON — The county of Rutland, England’s smallest by some measures, has for years had varied gastronomic options: pub food, Indian cuisine, tapas and even a restaurant with a Michelin star.

But it was the only English county not to have a McDonald’s — until now.

The local council on Tuesday approved an application by McDonald’s for a new restaurant in the county, a decision that many in the area viewed as a surrender of England’s last fortress to fast-food’s signature golden arches, despite a promise by the company that the outlet would provide at least 65 jobs.

Among residents’ objections to the McDonald’s, which is planned near the town of Oakham, were worries over litter, noise, obesity and crime.

Rutland, a rural county with a population of about 37,000 according to the most recent census, has been noted for its serenity and beauty. Hailed as “Britain’s best rural area for quality of life” by Halifax bank in 2015, it includes the historic towns of Oakham and Uppingham.