Police join forces with community to stop development of Redfern McDonald's in fear of spike in violent crime
Police have joined the opposing side of a divided community to stop the development of a 24-hour McDonald's on the main strip in Redfern in Sydney's inner suburbs.
The $3 million development plan which would see a two-storey restaurant on Redfern Street has sparked fury amongst hundreds of residents who have labelled it a 'poison and blemish on the map of Redfern' and a 'fluorescent blight'.
On the other hand, supporters for the proposal have acknowledged the opportunity for youth employment in the area, benefit to small businesses by increasing foot traffic and improved night life.
The development application was lodged with the City of Sydney council in January and was open for public comment until February 6. Council has received 269 objections and 17 supportive submissions to the proposal.
In the latest submission Senior Constable Peter Langbein told the council's independent planning panel the popular fast food restaurant could lead to a spike in the level of criminality in the neighbourhood including theft of e-bikes and violence after dark.
'Patrons leaving the premises during late hours are likely to engage in a range of behaviour, which need not rise to a level of criminality yet will adversely affect the neighbourhood, including talking amongst themselves, yelling, screaming and arguing,' he said.
Langbein further added the location of the McDonald's being so close to a train station is expected to increase youth crime as it is where young people "tend to meet up" for free WIFI and a cheap meal.
With the planning panel expected to meet on Wednesday for further discussions, locals have headed to social media to express their stance on the proposal.
One resident criticised police for siding with those opposing the plan and labelled the risk of crime a "weak argument".
"With respect. That's a weak argument. The police are essentially admitting they're incapable of policing - so allowing criminals to dictate what businesses can open, since 'theft and violence will increase'. How is that McDonald's fault? What a weak argument and an indictment on the police," a resident wrote on Facebook.
"Agreed - even if it draws crime (that is likely already taking place across the surrounding area) to the restaurant is that such a bad thing given the police station quite literally across the road?" another responded.
"All the trouble maker lads will make it their hangout and more s*** will go down. Not a good idea," a third argued.
A lawyer who works in Redfern but is not a local resident told SkyNews.com.au she welcomes the development and argued the restaurant would increase access to affordable food in the area.
"There is a lot of social housing and people of lower socioeconomic status along with other vulnerabilities in the area who could really benefit from a cheaper option," she said.
A petition was created in January in a bid to stop the proposal from moving forward which has so far gained 1,536 signatures.
"As a local resident, I strongly object to McDonald's proposed development on Redfern Street. This plan poses significant risks to the character of our community, local businesses, and public wellbeing," the petition read.
"Redfern Street has flourished into a vibrant village with independent businesses, small bars, and unique restaurants. A McDonald's would disrupt this character, replacing the street's evolving identity with a standard corporate design that doesn't fit our community."
If the proposal is successful, the new McDonald's restaurant would be situated next to Mr Charlies which is a popular vegan restaurant known for its parodic play on McDonald's.
However, the City of Sydney Council is expected to recommend the $3 million proposal be refused at the planning panel meeting on Wednesday.
A spokesperson for McDonald's said the company will be engaging with the community to address any concerns.
'We welcome feedback from council and the community and will be engaging openly with stakeholders and community members over the coming weeks to understand and address any concerns,' they said.
'If approved, the proposed McDonald's in Redfern would create more than 100 local jobs, create opportunities for community partnerships and sponsorships, and involve an investment of approximately $3 million.'
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