Guzman y Gomez submits plans for Mackay drive-through in Mount Pleasant

The popular Mexican food chain has spilled the beans about its plans for a drive-through as its north Queensland expansion continues. Find out where Mackay’s first Guzman y Gomez is proposed here.

After more than a year of speculation, we now know the proposed location of Mackay’s first Mexican drive-through.

Guzman y Gomez plans to build in Mt Pleasant Shopping Centre’s carpark on Mackay Bucasia Road and Malcomson Street.

Documents submitted to Mackay Regional Council on November 1, 2022 show construction would cost “over $1 million”.

Guzman y Gomez is coming to Mackay, with details about the proposed drive-through released recently. Photo: Contributed

“The proposal is considered to be in the public interest as it will deliver a number of public, social and economic benefits,” development documents said.

“(It) will generate direct ongoing employment opportunities.

“As well as further job creation during the construction phase.

Guzman y Gomez is coming to Mackay, with details about the proposed drive-through released recently. Photo: Contributed

“(It) will meet the needs of people with physical disabilities, sensory disabilities and intellectual disabilities.

“The proposal will (meet) the daily needs of the surrounding residents, workers and visitors.”

The outlet would be divided between 230 sqm of internal dining area, food preparation areas, storage, amenities, office, service area, and a 52 sqm external/alfresco area.

Guzman y Gomez is coming to Mackay, with details about the proposed drive-through released recently. Photo: Contributed

“(The) drive-through (can contain) 14 cars, including dual lane order point, forming a single lane payment booth, and pick-up booth,” documents said.

“The proposed food and drink outlet will operate 24 hours 7 days a week.

“Access to the site is currently provided from Phillip Street and Malcomson Street.”

Guzman y Gomez is coming to Mackay, with details about the proposed drive-through released recently. Photo: Contributed

Phillip Street is a main access point to the Mt Pleasant Shopping Centre from Mackay Bucasia Road.

The drive-through would also neighbour the Mt Pleasant KFC drive-through.

This follows founder and CEO Steven Marks insistence a new franchise should be “where it is so easy to access”.

Guzman y Gomez is coming to Mackay, with details about the proposed drive-through released recently. Photo: Contributed

“I’m slightly needy like that,” Mr Marks said.

“We have people that really want to own a GYG and we have the most beautiful franchisees.”

Three other potential sites had been previously identified, with one in the Mackay CBD also considered.

Guzman y Gomez is coming to Mackay, with details about the proposed drive-through released recently. Photo: Contributed

While GYG has planned its northwards expansion in Queensland, delays with the Cairns outlet have disappointed hungry fans.

Townsville has had GYG franchises for more than eight years now and Rockhampton is in line for its second, with plans for a drive-through store on the city’s south side to complement the existing outlet at Stockland Rockhampton.

Documents were submitted to Rockhampton Regional Council for the GYG drive-through.

The Mt Pleasant GYG is currently being considered by Mackay Regional Council.