New Zealand Urban Design Panels meddle with McDonalds

Urban design panels in New Zealand have been forcing McDonalds to change restaurant plans.

Watson - McDolands Development Director has criticised councils for imposing strict architectural and design criteria, citing Frankton and Whangaparaoa where McDonald's was forced to change plans to get consent.

"Local urban design panels start meddling with us," he said, citing the extensive use of cedar at Frankton, "which is not a good timber for our type of use" and marine-style materials at Whangaparaoa "so it's a beautiful beach house".

"What's the impact? It cost us a hell of a lot more money. Have we seen more sales? No. But we've had a positive reaction from the community who say 'wow, is this a McDonald's?"' Watson said.

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