Bass Coast Shire councillors have unanimously voted to refuse a planning application for a 24-hour McDonald’s on Phillip Island, but acknowledged the decision could lead to a costly VCAT fight with the fast food company.
What happened: Since community submissions opened in April, the council has received 1,564 objections to the development of a McDonald’s at the corner of Thompson Avenue and Settlement Road in Cowes.
This led to councillors voting against their own officer’s advice during Wednesday’s council meeting, which had recommended that councillors grant the permit.
Council officers found the McDonald’s application complied with state planning provisions.
What they said: Community objections were mainly based around concerns of increased traffic near the town’s primary school, taking business away from local shops and changing the town’s character.
Councillors conceded the refusal will likely be challenged at VCAT at the cost of tens of thousands of ratepayer dollars - but said the community had spoken.
Councillor Jan Thompson told the council meeting: "Past experience shows McDonald's are very successful at VCAT."
She apologised "to all ratepayers for the funds that will be implemented to fight the VCAT application".