McDonalds pushes ahead with plans to open first outlet in North Sydney
McDonalds is pushing ahead with plans to open its first store 24/7 in North Sydney, prompting concerns over noise, security and around-the-clock trading hours.
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McDonalds has announced plans to open its first 24/7 outlet in North Sydney, bucking the trend in restaurant closures prompted by the outbreak of coronavirus.
The fast food chain has lodged a development application to North Sydney to open its 996th store in Australia at the corner of Miller St and the Pacific Hwy.
The proposed store would be located at the current Joe and The Juice outlet and would trade 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
McDonalds said North Sydney was considered an “appropriate hub for late night trading” and would “contribute to the emerging night time character of the CBD”.
But residents have questioned demand for around-the-clock trading, with submissions also raising concerns over potential noise, odour and security issues.
North Sydney Mayor Jilly Gibson said the proposal “had merit” given the spike in local restaurant closures since the outbreak of coronavirus. New regulations announced by the Federal Government have also limited restaurants and cafes to serving delivery and takeaway.
“Recent events demonstrate we live in a rapidly changing economy – our work habits, our social lives and eating habits have been thrown into total chaos. We have to explore all new options,” she said.
“I’m not sure what the demand for midnight burgers is in North Sydney but the council is trying to promote a night-time economy. Perhaps it’s an idea worth trying.”
McDonalds said at least three staff would also be on-shift at any time with managers tasked with controlling “noise, loitering and litter generated by patrons”.
The company said employees would also be trained on how to deal with “angry, aggressive and difficult” customers.
The application stated the project complied with noise regulations and would have a “negligible impact” on surrounding sites including the Vibe Hotel and Tree House Hotel.
The company has also lodged a seperate development application to install a $25,000 illuminated McDonalds “M” sign outside the shop.
The plan stated the outlet would “deliver a great social benefit to the area” and include “healthy eating options” for customers.