The New South Wales Police have raised objections against the proposal for a 24-hour McDonald’s in Redfern, a suburb of Sydney. Their concerns centre on the potential for increased crime and violence in the area, particularly regarding thefts of e-bikes and cycles, as well as general robberies and vandalism. Senior Constable Peter Langbein expressed fears that the establishment could exacerbate issues in a location already identified as a crime hotspot.
The local police submission noted the vicinity’s social housing estates, which house around 3,000 residents. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel has voiced its opposition to the plan, stating it would worsen existing health disparities in the community. According to the 2021 census, 4% of the local population identifies as Indigenous.
The proposal has sparked considerable controversy among residents since it was announced earlier this year, with 269 submissions opposing it compared to only 17 in support. Opponents argue that adding a fast-food outlet would introduce unhealthy food options, incite noise and litter, and disrupt the area’s character. With several burger shops already in Redfern and another McDonald’s situated 1.6 km away, many locals feel there is little need for an additional franchise.
While petitions against the plan have garnered over 1,000 signatures, some community members argue it could create job opportunities in the area. The proposal involves transforming a deteriorating building at 153 Redfern Street, currently housing a tobacconist and a linen shop, into a fast-food outlet with seating for 12 and a pick-up counter.
The local council has recommended refusing the application, citing issues such as inadequate provisions for crime prevention, pedestrian interference due to delivery operations, and potential negative impacts on local businesses and the overall character of the suburb. They highlighted concerns about the proposed hours of operation leading to detrimental effects in the neighbourhood, and anticipated problems with litter and foul smells.
The council is set to make a decision on the proposal in a meeting tonight. Positioned just south of Sydney’s central business district, Redfern has historical significance as a hub of Indigenous activism since the 1970s, with a considerable proportion of its households being in social housing. Such factors contribute to the complex dynamics surrounding the proposed development of a 24-hour McDonald’s in the area.