Andy Miller, a resident of Northcote, expressed his disappointment following a recent decision that allowed a controversial development to proceed. Despite the setback, Miller, who has been actively opposing the project alongside the local council, remains optimistic about continuing the fight. He pointed out that “No Macca’s Campaigns” are gaining momentum across the country, suggesting a broader resistance to such developments.
In a notable decision from November, Darebin councillors voted 6-3 against the planning proposal. However, the matter resurfaced last week when the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) ruled that the local opposition, which argued the fast-food outlet was out of sync with the area’s character, did not pertain to the specifics of the planning application.
Miller criticized the VCAT tribunal for disregarding the community’s concerns about how a McDonald’s could affect Northcote’s closely-knit social environment. A petition opposing the development gathered significant support, amassing over 11,300 signatures.
Many locals fear that the introduction of a fast-food chain could disrupt the unique mix of local eateries, trendy bars, boutique shops, and vibrant live music venues that define High Street, stretching through Northcote, Thornbury, and Preston. This eclectic atmosphere is cherished by the community and seen as an integral part of its identity.
A petition against the proposal attracted more than 11,300 signatures.
Many feared the proposed convenience restaurant would spoil the blend of local restaurants, hip bars, boutique shops and live music venues that run along High Street, which runs along the suburbs of Northcote, Thornbury and Preston.
Locals said the late-night opeing hours would compromise the suburb’s “unique character”.
Time Out magazine last year named the buzzy High Street as number one in its “world’s coolest street” rankings.
“Macca’s relies on the fact that councils and communities get exhausted,” Miller said, adding that Northcote residents will “regroup” and assess their options.
It is difficult to appeal a VCAT decision.
Tribunal decisions can only be appealed in the Victorian Supreme Court.
Community members will gather for a “Fast Food Forum” next week to discuss who suburbs can ”protect [themselves] against these powerful chains and reform the planning system that enables their proliferation”.
A spokesperson for McDonald’s said the fast good giant welcomed the outcome and that the application had been “fairly and rightly assessed”.
“The restaurant represents an investment of more than $2 million and reflects McDonald’s ongoing commitment to employment-generating development across Victoria,” the spokesperson said.
“The restaurant will be owned and operated by a local Franchisee, who will contribute to the local area through employment, access to training and development opportunities, and supporting local community organisations.”
McDonald’s previously argued the development would generate around 100 jobs during construction and 100 full-time, part-time and casual jobs once it is open.
It is scheduled to open later this year.
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