LETTERS: The battle of Balmoral

At the hearing we had sincere and moving testimony from Pt Chevalier residents about just how much of an unpleasant impact the McDonalds there had had on their lives and the utterly uncaring attitude of the McDonalds management to their plight. I'm not sure exactly where Lynare lives, but perhaps she should catch up with the immediate neighbours and listen to their point of view.
Cliff Bateman,
Balmoral
I have been reading with interest the developments around the building of McDonalds in Balmoral. I can understand the concerns by the local group.
Certainly the idea of a McDonalds and what it may bring  into the area has brought about much debate over the months. As a long time resident of Pt Chevalier, I also had the same concerns about the locality of the now McDonalds outlet in our area and how it would affect Pt Chevalier.
As it is well known, McDonalds Pt Chevalier is located on the corners of Great North Rd and Kiwi Rd. As a resident of Kiwi Rd, I thought the idea ludicrous given the locality. However, some years later, McDonalds has integrated well into our community. The area  in which it dwells, is kept clean smart and fresh.
There is no rubbish lying about, no young ones hooning in the car park, there is plenty of parking, of which only one house had to be demolished, and the staff and eating environment are kept incredibly clean, staff are very friendly and helpful. And  I have gotten to know the staff over time.
I personally think McDonalds has given a bit of colour to Pt Chevalier, it caters for a wide group of our community, from little ones to our precious senior residents, and most Sundays you will find young find old happily eating and playing at McDonalds.
I guess all areas are not the same and have different concerns, and everyone is entitled to their have their say. Maybe Pt Chevalier is just lucky with the McDonalds we have. But it is also good to hear about how other areas have fared with a major outlet such as McDonalds coming into their area.
Lynare Schwarz,
Pt Chevalier
If anyone is in any doubt about the utter nonsense of this decision, go to www.youtube.com and search for balmoralsaysno.
These people making the decision have decided that this proposal will "maintain or enhance the local amenity values".
View the short clip and make your own decision.
Nathan