Although plans for a new McDonald's on West Bay Drive have been discussed for months, it still may come as a surprise to see the large vacant space by the Pinellas Trail. 

The old West Bay Drive McDonald's was torn down on Monday and work should start on the new building next week, according to a contractor wrapping up a day's work at the site.

The building was demolished to make way for a new restaurant as part of the company's nationwide campaign to refresh most of its existing locations. Only the McDonald's sign and a picnic area remained late Monday afternoon.

The staff from the West Bay McDonald's will work at the new McDonald's by U.S. 19 and Roosevelt during the reconstruction process. The two restaurants have the same owners.

The new Roosevelt location is set to open in just a couple of days according to a sign outside the building.

McDonald's is also rebuilding its Jasper Drive location.