Opposition grows to McDonald's restaurant
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Kaikoura
A McDonald's restaurant in Kaikoura will be the "kiss of death" for many small local businesses and those concerned should speak up now, says Bob Rochford.
But that is not the only worry for the town if the project goes ahead, according to some.
Golden arches spoiling the view, an increase in litter around the streets, noise and light pollution and a proliferation of health issues are troubling many residents and Mr Rochford is one of those concerned.
He has organised a petition which will circulate around town for those who wish to have their say. Mr Rochford plans to approach local businesses this week to ask them to display copies of the petition and is keen to hear from anyone who is interested.
Kaikoura mayor Kevin Heays said he had been approached by two members of the community, one adult and one school child, who were both opposed to the establishment of a McDonald's restaurant.
However he said if the district plan allowed for it, it could be a difficult thing to prevent.
The district plan could be changed as happens on occasion.
This was a long slow process which involved public consultation. However, such things could be addressed if the need arose. The council would be looking at meeting midway through the year to discuss amendments to the district plan.
Feedback from a forum held in 2002, A Kaikoura Celebration, indicated that the community did not want to see any large fast food chains in town and a similar scenario is being played out in Mosgiel, where residents have approached the council to try to stop the move.
The Dunedin City Council received 18 submissions last month, 17 opposed and one partially opposed, on the Mosgiel application and a date to hear the submissions is be likely to take place in August.
- The Marlborough Express
