McDonalds win Right to build
December 2010
After 3 1/2 years of fighting the appalling proposal to build a McDonalds, the Balmoral residents have lost the batlle against the multinational giant.
The decision by the courts was announced just before Christmas - great timing thanks. Read the decision here.
Also as at the 29th of April, following discussion by all parties, the court has released conditions associated with the decision. These relate to items such as security on the site, hours of operation (ie if the site closes at 10 when do they stop taking orders). Also of importance are the review clauses should the McDonalds experts not have been correct that the operations will have "less than minor" impact on the Balmoral environment.
It has certainly been a long 3 1/2 years and a lot of money from the community has gone to fight against the proposal. At least the community is stronger as a result of this, but are obviously disappointed at the result as well as the mealy mouthed platitudes of McDonalds management that they are "committed to being a good neighbour in all the communities in which it operates".
This was not apparent in St Helliers where the McDonalds was closed because there were not enogh people in the area. They are an American multinational that are only interested in the bottom line results, not helping the community.
The new franchisees are Sam and Angela Maharaj who already own 4 other McDonalds including St Lukes. According to McDonalds propaganda they "have done a terrific job in engaging with their communities - employing quality local people and supporting local activities and events". Good luck in Balmoral.
As local residents will be aware the demolition of the old building is now nearly complete and construction of the new fatty fast food fry up facility begins on the 16th of May.
Photos of the Balmoral fair, site and the area the "restaurant" is planned.
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