Share and Follow
Angry residents have rallied against a proposal to open a 24/7 cafe at 212-214 King Street, located in a bustling suburb close to the central business district.
The opposition included police, who cited concerns about potential crime, and locals who worried about increased litter and the impact on independent businesses.
Over 1,000 community members signed an online petition after the development application was submitted on July 8. The City of Sydney rejected the proposal in October, declaring it “unsuitable.”
The area already hosts six chicken shops, including well-known brands like KFC and El Jannah, all within a 170-meter radius.
Letters from the community expressed a strong desire to avoid “another American fast food chain,” fearing it could negatively affect local favorite, Clem’s Chicken.
“it’s already hard for us to survive,” Raza told the council.
Others feared it would increase the number of food delivery riders illegally using pavements.
About 1400 submissions were made, most against the restaurant, which would cost the company $1.7 million.
The company told 9News the reviewed application it lodged in January 2026 reduces its hours to 7am – 11pm Sunday to Thursday and 7am- 2am Friday and Saturday.
It says it has also addressed plans to handle rubbish, loading and deliveries – including earmarking “dedicated areas” for food delivery riders which was something councillors were worried about.
McDonald’s told 9News: ”We see strong potential in joining the Newtown community and have lodged a review to provide further information and respond directly to Council’s feedback.
“We remain committed to working collaboratively with Council and exploring solutions that support a positive outcome for the community.”
The new application is under review by City of Sydney Council.
In November, a plan to build a 24-hour McDonald’s restaurant in one of Melbourne’s trendiest suburbs was knocked back following community backlash.
Councillors voted against plans to transform a fire-damaged and vacant building at 323 High Street, Northcote, into a restaurant.