Plans to establish a 24-hour McDonald’s in one of Melbourne’s most fashionable neighborhoods have been halted due to significant community opposition. The proposal intended to transform a fire-damaged, vacant building at 323 High Street in Northcote, a northern suburb of the city, into a convenience restaurant.

In a decisive move, Darebin councillors voted 6-3 against the planning motion. This decision came despite the fact that, technically, McDonald’s did not require planning permission to proceed, as the site was already zoned for commercial use. The absence of a need for a permit specifically for a fast-food outlet added a layer of complexity to the situation.

Several years ago, a redevelopment permit had been granted for the site, and the recent application sought merely to amend this permit to allow for the construction of a restaurant. However, the proposal met with considerable resistance from local residents and businesses, who voiced their concerns over the past months.

The strong community backlash underscores the growing sensitivity towards maintaining the unique character and lifestyle of the area. The council’s decision reflects the power of community voices in influencing urban development plans.

But over past months, the plan has triggered strong opposition from Northcote residents and businesses.

A petition against the proposal attracted more than 11,000 signatures.

Many feared the proposed convenience restaurant would spoil the blend of local restaurants, hip bars, boutique shops and live music venues that run along High Street, which runs along the suburbs of Northcote, Thornbury and Preston.

Time Out magazine last year named the buzzy High Street as number one in its “world’s coolest street” rankings.

In its planning application, McDonald’s said converting the site to a restaurant would create more than 100 local jobs and help the Northcote community.

9news.com.au today contacted the company for comment.