Despite opposition from locals, Orange City Council staff have recommended that the Development Application (DA) for the town’s second McDonald’s restaurant be approved. 

The council has received almost 80 submissions from residents, many of whom are worried that the development would affect traffic flow, reports ABC News.

Others also argued it was “inappropriate” that a fast food chain be located in such close proximity to two childcare centres, that the restaurant would devalue nearby properties, and it would increase noise pollution.

Susan White of Pearl Court, a street located in close proximity to the proposed McDonald’s site on the corner of Farrell Road and Telopia Way, said the council has chosen “money over safety,” reports The Central Western Daily.

“I’m disappointed about this, lives are at risk,” explained Susan.

She said if the development does go ahead, pedestrians will be at greater risk and both traffic volume, as well as the number of accidents, will rise.

A report submitted to the town’s Sustainable Development Committee (SDC) states traffic flow will remain largely unaffected, and computer modelling is evidence of this.

It also claims the restaurant would employ up to 120 people in both full and part time roles.

Orange councillors will vote on the development at a SDC meeting on 2 April.