Is one of Australia’s coolest street about to change forever? Locals furious over new McDonald’s plan
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Melbourne’s High Street in Northcote has long been celebrated as a vibrant hub of creativity, culture, and community spirit—so much so that it was recently crowned the 'world’s coolest street.'
But now, this beloved strip is at the centre of a heated debate, as locals rally against a proposal to open a 24-hour McDonald’s right in the heart of their neighbourhood.
For many residents and business owners, the golden arches represent more than just burgers and fries—they symbolise a potential threat to the unique character and independent spirit that make High Street so special.
The proposed fast-food outlet has sparked a classic David and Goliath battle, pitting a global corporate giant against a tight-knit community determined to protect its identity.
High Street is renowned for its eclectic mix of independent cafes, quirky boutiques, live music venues, and multicultural eateries. It’s a place where you can grab a vegan doughnut, browse vintage records, and enjoy a late-night gig—all within a few blocks.
For many, the idea of a 24-hour McDonald’s plonked in the middle of this scene feels like an unwelcome intrusion.
'We wouldn’t call McDonald’s a cool shop,' says local trader Nina Bondarenko, echoing the sentiments of many. 'It would actually, probably divert a lot of customers to the quick fix food option instead of going to the usual kebab shops, the Japanese shops.'
David Norton, another resident, agrees: 'I think being a bigger, fast food, corporate in my opinion doesn’t fit in with the vibe of the area.'
McDonald’s, for its part, argues that the new restaurant would bring more than 100 jobs to the area—a tempting offer in uncertain economic times. But critics worry that the arrival of a multinational chain could spell disaster for the small, independent businesses that give High Street its soul.
The proposed 24-hour opening hours have also raised eyebrows. While some might welcome the convenience of a late-night snack, others fear it could bring a host of problems—noise, litter, and late-night rowdiness chief among them.
Also read: McDonald's faces backlash over unsanitary conditions, calls for better food safety
'Running a pub, you know, nothing good happens after about 1am. So you really don’t want lots of activity late at night,' says Ben, a local pub manager. Many residents share his concerns, worried that a round-the-clock fast-food joint could change the street’s atmosphere after dark.
This isn’t the first time Victorians have taken on McDonald’s—and won.
In 2013, the small town of Tecoma made headlines with a spirited campaign that ultimately stopped a McDonald’s from opening. More recently, the Mt Evelyn community successfully opposed a similar proposal. These victories have inspired hope among Northcote locals that they, too, can protect their patch.
'There’ll be a lot of fighting,' Ms Bondarenko warns. 'We want to help small business, keep their diversity, their beautiful individual interests going.'
The local council is expected to make a decision on the application in the coming months. In the meantime, the debate rages on, with passionate arguments on both sides.
For some, the promise of jobs and convenience is hard to ignore. For others, the risk to High Street’s unique character is simply too great.
Related story: Why are authorities blocking this restaurant's plans? Community members reveal reason
What do you think—should High Street welcome a 24-hour McDonald’s, or is it worth fighting to keep the big chains out? Have you seen similar battles in your own neighbourhood? Do you think these kinds of developments help or hurt local business? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
But now, this beloved strip is at the centre of a heated debate, as locals rally against a proposal to open a 24-hour McDonald’s right in the heart of their neighbourhood.
For many residents and business owners, the golden arches represent more than just burgers and fries—they symbolise a potential threat to the unique character and independent spirit that make High Street so special.
The proposed fast-food outlet has sparked a classic David and Goliath battle, pitting a global corporate giant against a tight-knit community determined to protect its identity.
High Street is renowned for its eclectic mix of independent cafes, quirky boutiques, live music venues, and multicultural eateries. It’s a place where you can grab a vegan doughnut, browse vintage records, and enjoy a late-night gig—all within a few blocks.
For many, the idea of a 24-hour McDonald’s plonked in the middle of this scene feels like an unwelcome intrusion.
Northcote locals and business owners are strongly opposing a proposed 24-hour McDonald's on High Street, fearing it will ruin the street's unique character and community vibe. Image source: Boshoku / Unsplash.
'We wouldn’t call McDonald’s a cool shop,' says local trader Nina Bondarenko, echoing the sentiments of many. 'It would actually, probably divert a lot of customers to the quick fix food option instead of going to the usual kebab shops, the Japanese shops.'
David Norton, another resident, agrees: 'I think being a bigger, fast food, corporate in my opinion doesn’t fit in with the vibe of the area.'
McDonald’s, for its part, argues that the new restaurant would bring more than 100 jobs to the area—a tempting offer in uncertain economic times. But critics worry that the arrival of a multinational chain could spell disaster for the small, independent businesses that give High Street its soul.
The proposed 24-hour opening hours have also raised eyebrows. While some might welcome the convenience of a late-night snack, others fear it could bring a host of problems—noise, litter, and late-night rowdiness chief among them.
Also read: McDonald's faces backlash over unsanitary conditions, calls for better food safety
'Running a pub, you know, nothing good happens after about 1am. So you really don’t want lots of activity late at night,' says Ben, a local pub manager. Many residents share his concerns, worried that a round-the-clock fast-food joint could change the street’s atmosphere after dark.
This isn’t the first time Victorians have taken on McDonald’s—and won.
In 2013, the small town of Tecoma made headlines with a spirited campaign that ultimately stopped a McDonald’s from opening. More recently, the Mt Evelyn community successfully opposed a similar proposal. These victories have inspired hope among Northcote locals that they, too, can protect their patch.
'There’ll be a lot of fighting,' Ms Bondarenko warns. 'We want to help small business, keep their diversity, their beautiful individual interests going.'
The local council is expected to make a decision on the application in the coming months. In the meantime, the debate rages on, with passionate arguments on both sides.
For some, the promise of jobs and convenience is hard to ignore. For others, the risk to High Street’s unique character is simply too great.
Related story: Why are authorities blocking this restaurant's plans? Community members reveal reason
What do you think—should High Street welcome a 24-hour McDonald’s, or is it worth fighting to keep the big chains out? Have you seen similar battles in your own neighbourhood? Do you think these kinds of developments help or hurt local business? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
