COUNCILLOR Larry Whipper will attempt to stop a land zoning change that would pave the way for McDonald’s to take prime position in Moss Vale.
In December, all but Crs Whipper and Jim Clark voted to change the land zoning of an adjacent residential block so that McDonald’s could build a drive-through restaurant on the corner of Suttor and Argyle Streets.
But, Cr Whipper has vowed to bring the decision back to the table for further discussion.
“After a number of calls from residents, I am more convinced than ever that we have got this one completely wrong,” Cr Whipper said.
“This is not about McDonald’s-bashing as some would suggest. This rescission [motion] is based on planning principles and processes.”
Cr Whipper said some residents believe they have been denied natural justice and the opportunity to raise any objections to Council’s decision.
“The residents who have contacted me have raised concerns about the backflip by some councillors and have questioned Council’s commitment to our new LEP,” Cr Whipper said.
“I agree with those observations and do not feel that we have acted with any credibility in this instance.”
“After talking to residents, I get the distinct feeling they believed that Council had made their decision over a long period of exhibition with the draft LEP and consequently the adoption of that LEP, which did not list any changes, was a considered position”.
Cr Whipper said Council’s staff recommended refusal of McDonald’s application for a spot rezoning, and in the report to Council they stated that to approve such a rezoning was not good strategic planning.
“I agree completely with the planner’s assessment. This is not the appropriate site for a McDonald’s, or any similar outlet,” Cr Whipper said.
“It has many safety and aesthetic issues that I believe the community will not accept.
“I am also concerned at the potential for a precedent that will see other fast food outlets try it on in other locations at the same roundabout.”
Originally opposed to the plan, Mayor Duncan Gair abandoned Whipper and Clark in December to vote for amending the draft Local Environment Plan (LEP), effectively allowing McDonald’s to use a residential block for commercial means.
Now, Cr Gair has returned to the opposition camp by throwing his support behind Cr Whipper’s rescission motion.
“I am concerned Council would be setting a precedent if this was to go ahead,” Cr Gair said. “I also don’t believe Council should give up such a premium site in Moss Vale so easily.
“Rezoning this would be a huge windfall for McDonald’s and I am not against McDonald’s. In fact I have taken my children and have partaken myself from time to time, but Council should not be about making a multi-national viable.
“If they want to come to Moss Vale let them pay for a more suitable site.”
Cr Gair said he believed the location should remain residential, suggesting the site would be much better suited for an affordable housing block.
Councillor Ken Halstead said while some might be prepared to ‘backflip’, he would stand strong on the issue.
“Why would anyone change? I just find it unbelievable that anyone would backflip on development that has got the tick and is supported by Council. I believe, on the rezoning, the result of the vote was seven to two,” Cr Halstead said.
“[The rescission] doesn’t worry me, I will be voting the same.
“I like to be consistent when we are talking about jobs for kids and jobs for people and what’s called a flow-on effect, which is what we have when an industry or commercial enterprise comes along.”
McDonald’s spokesperson Amy Lawrence was disappointed an already lengthy process may be further delayed.
“We are focused on understanding and responding to any new concerns some of the councillors have,” Ms Lawrence said.
“We maintain that McDonald’s can make a substantial, positive impact in Moss Vale with a new restaurant offering employment and training opportunities for 100-120 locals.
“Due to the flexibility of hours available, McDonald’s is a large employer of youth but also an employer of choice for people of all ages seeking flexible hours that can fit around their commitments, be they study, sporting, family or other.
“During the construction phase there may also opportunities for local trades as preferred builders generally tender business locally.
Ms Lawrence said each restaurant has a wages bill in the vicinity of $1 million and this was great news for local businesses.
“Our restaurants are also committed to using local suppliers wherever possible and suitable, meaning a new restaurant brings potential opportunities for milk vendors, local newsagents and others,” she said.
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