Council unanimously rejects McDonalds for Cowes

Key points

• Bass Coast Shire Council has unanimously rejected a $3.4 million McDonald's restaurant proposal in Cowes. The vote went against the recommendation of the council's own planning department.
• Councillors cited inconsistency with local planning policies, the site being zoned residential, and traffic and pedestrian safety near a primary school. Almost 1500 written submissions opposed the development, and many objectors attended the meeting.
• Councillor Ron Bauer said the council should be prepared to take the matter to the Supreme Court if necessary.