McDonald’s has returned with a second attempt to open a restaurant in Wānaka after strong community resistance blocked its initial proposal to build in the popular lakeside location.
The company has submitted a consent application to build at Three Parks in Wānaka, following the rejection of its earlier proposal to construct at the Mount Iron roundabout.
“A number of alternative sites presented themselves following the hearing on the Mt Iron resource consent,” a spokesperson said.
“We have now lodged a resource consent application for a site in Three Parks, zoned business mixed use. We will now work through the consent process with the council. Subject to consent approval, we will then confirm a planned opening date.”
The application for a 450.4 sqm McDonald’s restaurant and drive-through, situated near the BP service station at Three Parks on 1 Sir Tim Wallis Drive, is currently under review by the Queenstown Lakes District Council.
The restaurant and drive-through are planned to operate around the clock, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There would be a total of 19 car parks, including two spaces located within the drive-through lane at the ‘grill order’ area.
Pizza Hut is also exploring potential sites within Three Parks, but according to QLDC, no resource consent application has been submitted yet.
Willowridge director Allan Dippie said he does not anticipate any community opposition to the introduction of fast food outlets in town.
“Not particularly. I expect most of the township will be very happy with the location. The overwhelming feedback from the community has been that Three Parks is the most suitable location for McDonald’s to locate.”
He mentioned there is a strong likelihood that both fast food chains will receive approval and suggested that additional ones could also be allowed.