Wongawilli McDonald's fight not over as council takes developer to court for appeal

An initial court date has been set for February 16 as the council pushes for its rejection of the fast-food outlet in the new residential neighbourhood to stand.

The Mercury understands residents were informed about the legal appeal at Wednesday's Neighbourhood Forum 8 meeting.

Resident Natasha Panetta, whose home would look directly on to the new McDonald's, said a solution more in tune with the West Dapto master plan should be able to be found.

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"[We're] hoping that this appeal will see the Land and Environment Court review this from a legal standing, and take further into account the impacts associated with this development in proximity to the local residents," she said.

"Overall the community and committee against this development is glad that WCC is taking this stand, and is fighting on our behalf.

"Whilst remaining apprehensive there is a level of hope for the outcome we believe should of been handed down - which is a denial of this development, and the developer looking into solutions more in line with the original west Dapto master plan.

"If they would take a leaf out of the approved Tullimbar development proposal, and how that is focused around that community it is within, and providing fantastic amenities, I believe this is how our semi rural area and this zone should be treated."

The council said it would argue the decision had failed to make the relevant chapter of the Wollongong Development Control Plan "a focal point for consideration"..

"This includes the failure to properly consider the traffic and safety impacts of changes to the development required by a condition of consent," a spokesperson said.

A spokeswoman for McDonald's said the company supported the previous court decision.

"The Wongawilli site is zoned for commercial development and the application has been fairly assessed on its merits," she said.

"McDonald's has been open and transparent with the community and council throughout each stage of the development application process and will continue to do so.

"The development will generate approximately 150 jobs during construction and once operational, McDonald's will create a further 100 new employment opportunities for Wollongong locals in fulltime, part-time and casual roles."

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