In Safety Beach, the prospect of a new fast-food outlet has sparked significant community backlash, as residents express concerns about its impact on their “simple seaside community.” Many locals have owned their homes for decades, enjoying close proximity to the beach. Local resident Robertson has voiced discontent, emphasizing that the proposed fast-food restaurant will be located less than 100 meters from Port Phillip Bay. Despite the zoning of the area as residential, planning rules permit the establishment of convenience restaurants, leading to frustration among community members.
Robertson highlights the disparity between the resources available to local residents and those of AA Holdings, the company behind the proposed outlet, which operates over 50 BP stations across Melbourne. The financial prowess of AA Holdings is evidenced by their reported revenue of $864 million in 2024. This power dynamic has intensified feelings of helplessness among residents, who believe that their concerns are being overshadowed by corporate interests. They feel that the development is being pushed through without ample consideration for community objections.
Local business owner Paul Whittaker has also raised alarm about the potential consequences of a new McDonald’s, fearing it may jeopardize the survival of small businesses in the area. He claims that the introduction of a large fast-food chain could limit the variety of dining options available. Despite their strong opposition presented during the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) proceedings, Whittaker and others feel their voices have gone unheard, fueling resentment against the decision-making process.
Mornington Peninsula Mayor Anthony Marsh has echoed these concerns, labeling the development as unsuitable for the location. He raised serious safety issues regarding vehicle access, arguing that the plan does not provide adequate parking or queuing space for drive-through customers. He fears that the new outlet will negatively impact the residential atmosphere and lead to environmental degradation due to potential littering.
The project has received overwhelming community opposition, with over 500 objections filed against the development, marking one of the council’s largest responses to a single application. Mayor Marsh expressed disappointment that VCAT did not heed the concerns from both the council and residents. This community-driven resistance underscores a broader conversation about local governance and the power of corporate entities in influencing neighborhood dynamics.
In its ruling, VCAT members acknowledged AA Holdings’ proposals to address traffic and parking issues related to the drive-through. Conditions were implemented, including the requirement for daily litter patrols and limitations on noise and odors affecting nearby residents. However, many remain skeptical, questioning the necessity of a McDonald’s in the area, especially with existing franchises already operating nearby. The community’s mixed feelings reflect a struggle between development pressures and the desire to preserve local character.
