National
Northcote Council Halts McDonald’s Outlet Plan, Rejects Application
The council in Melbourne's inner north argued that the restaurant doesn't fit with the character of the area. Earlier, the High Street in Northcote was named the world's coolest street in 2024. Popular fast…
The council in Melbourne's inner north argued that the restaurant doesn't fit with the character of the area. Earlier, the High Street in Northcote was named the world's coolest street in 2024.
Popular fast food restaurant chain firm McDonald's faced a major setback after the City of Darebin council voted to refuse its application for a restaurant proposed for a busy shopping strip.
The council in Melbourne's inner north argued that the restaurant doesn't fit with the character of the area. Earlier, the High Street in Northcote was named the world's coolest street in 2024.
According to various media reports, the council officers presented a report during the Monday night meeting where they found out that McDonald's was already zoned for a convenience restaurant. They recommended that the councillors grant the permit.
However, when the voting took place, the councillors voted six to three to refuse the application. This garnered applause from residents in the chamber.
Community concern
It is to be known that for over a year, the recommended site at 323 High Street has been empty following a fire incident.
Among the councillors who conceded the proposal are councillors Julie O'Brien, and Emily Dimitriades. O'Brien argued the council should consider local character, amenity, safety and environmental impact.
While Dimitriades argued that people signed a petition against the fast food giant moving into High Street. The locality is popular for its live music and independent restaurants.
Meanwhile, Councillor Matt Arturi voted in favour of the permit and argued that rejecting the permission may cost the council at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
Previous similar incidents
This is not the first time that McDonald's has faced a major setback in Australia. Earlier in September 2025, parents at a regional Victorian primary school demanded a 'no-fry zone' when the fast-food chain wanted to open a restaurant 100m from their children's classroom.
In 2012, residents in Melbourne's Dandenong Ranges opposed a proposal for a McDonald's restaurant at Tecoma. They had argued the fast food giant would lead to increased traffic and affect local businesses. However, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal overturned a council decision.
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