Fast-food giant McDonald’s is not giving up on its prime location in Wānaka.
Two weeks ago the fast-food restaurant was declined consent to build a 445sqm restaurant at the roundabout connecting Luggate, Albert Town, Queenstown and Wānaka.
The commissioners decided the proposal would be contrary to the ‘‘overall consideration of the objectives and policies of the operative and proposed district plan’’.
The adverse effects on the environment were said to be more than minor to the approach to Wānaka, the landscape character and the visual amenity values of Mt Iron.
McDonald’s told the Otago Daily Times the site had not been ruled out and the company fully intended to open a site in Wānaka, despite heavy opposition.
Of 350 submissions, 90% were opposed.
‘‘Following the recent ruling, we’re still in the process of reviewing the decision, including discussions with the developer, as we consider next steps with regards to that site,’’ spokesman Simon Kenny said.
‘‘Our intention remains to open a restaurant in Wānaka, navigating some of the local commercial interests at play.’’
The fast-food restaurant had planned to be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but this was changed during the hearing to a more limited opening of 6am to 11pm and its logo sign was also reduced in size.
Three Parks offered McDonald’s an alternative site, but the fast-food giant has said it is not in a prime or appropriate spot.
‘‘As was referenced through our lawyer’s right of reply, McDonald’s received an email from Three Parks in the lead-up to the hearing regarding a site in their development.
‘‘We didn’t respond given the timing with the hearing and have not had any communications with Three Parks since then.’’
- Olivia Caldwell
