A community coalition working to make healthy and sustainable food available to all Illawarra residents is speaking out against a proposal to build a new McDonald's restaurant at Wongawilli.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Food Fairness Illawarra - whose team includes representatives from Healthy Cities Illawarra, Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama councils, Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, and the University of Wollongong - has outlined multiple concerns about the fast food giant's plans.
McDonald's has lodged amended plans for a drive-through restaurant that will operate between 5am and midnight, after the local planning panel knocked back its application last year.
The proposal is also going before the Land and Environment Court next month.
The influence of the proposed restaurant on the eating habits of children and risk of obesity is one of Food Fairness Illawarra's concerns.
"The proposed McDonald's outlet would be in the heart of Wongawilli residential area and located within 50m of a large childcare centre and the new communities housing young families," the alliance said.
"Based on the evidence, this constitutes a threat to the health of local children. An extra 200 and 300 kilojoules a day is all that is needed for the development of overweight in children."
Meanwhile, the coalition said residents of the Dapto and Horsley areas were already presenting with major health issues, such as cancer and circulatory system illnesses.
The plan was contrary to the vision for West Dapto, it said, which stated the villages be "healthy, sustainable and resilient".
Other issues included safety risks to children attending the proposed childcare centre at the same site, and children's rights to access nutritious food.
Food Fairness Illawarra coordinator Berbel Franse said people would go for healthier choices if they had the option.
"I think it would be fantastic to see a small supermarket move in there," she said.
Standing up against McDonald's, she said, would set an example for other communities also opposed to the company moving into their areas.
But the amended development application submitted on behalf of McDonald's said that "the economic and social benefits of the proposal are significant and will have a positive impact on the local community".
"The proposed development... provides a well-conceived village centre design, offering a variety of valuable services and facilities within a high amenity urban environment," the application said.
The proposal also includes four other shops.
We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.
Sign up for our newsletters
Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
