McDonald’s has secured court approval for a drive-through restaurant at 37 Roseberry Street in Balgowlah, overturning an earlier planning rejection following hundreds of community objections over traffic, noise and public safety.
The NSW Land and Environment Court upheld the company’s appeal, granting consent for the development near the Manly Vale border. The amended plans include reduced trading hours, road upgrades and additional measures to address neighbourhood concerns.
New roundabout and shorter trading hours approved
McDonald’s must construct a mini roundabout at the intersection of Roseberry and Hayes streets to allow motorists to make U-turns when accessing the restaurant. A widened median island will provide a pedestrian refuge, while part of the 2,765-square-metre property will be dedicated to Northern Beaches Council for the roadworks.
The restaurant’s approved operating hours are 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., seven days a week, compared with the original proposal for 24-hour trading. The development also incorporates a revised building layout, improved acoustic measures, restrictions on waste collection times and operational management requirements.
Traffic safety was the sole issue remaining in dispute after a joint report from traffic experts. Further changes to the road arrangements resolved the council’s outstanding objections, allowing the amended application to proceed.
Court reverses unanimous planning rejection
The Northern Beaches Local Planning Panel unanimously rejected the proposal on 2 July 2025, citing concerns about traffic congestion, public safety and the site’s proximity to residential properties.
Approximately 740 objections were received across two consultation periods in February–March and May–June 2025. Residents raised concerns about increased vehicle movements around Roseberry Street and Kenneth Road, where supermarkets, large retailers and other businesses already generate substantial traffic.
Northern Beaches Police had also warned about potential crime and antisocial behaviour associated with late-night and early-morning trading. Other objections addressed noise, odours, pedestrian safety and the proposed restaurant’s impact on neighbouring homes.
Following McDonald’s appeal, the court considered revised plans, expert assessments and the objections raised by residents. Five objectors addressed the court during the hearing on 17 September 2026.
Acting Commissioner Helena Miller determined that the amendments and consent conditions adequately addressed the planning concerns or that the remaining objections did not justify refusal. Northern Beaches Council had agreed that its outstanding issues were resolved before the court approved.
Noise monitoring required after opening
The approval includes a requirement for an acoustic review within 30 days of the restaurant commencing operations. Testing must be conducted during a busy trading period, with the findings submitted to Northern Beaches Council.
If further physical works requiring approval are needed to achieve acoustic compliance, an application to modify the consent must be lodged within 30 days of the review. Any such works must receive approval before proceeding.
The court also assessed flooding, stormwater management and acid sulfate soils because the Roseberry Street property is classified as flood-prone land. Supporting environmental reports and management measures were considered sufficient to satisfy the relevant planning requirements.
Seven Miles Coffee site set for redevelopment
The approved restaurant would replace the existing premises occupied by Seven Miles Coffee Roasters at the corner of Roseberry Street and Kenneth Road.
Development consent permits demolition of the existing structures, earthworks, subdivision and construction of the new restaurant, including signage and associated road upgrades. McDonald’s has previously estimated the project would involve more than $3.9 million in investment and create over 100 local jobs and training opportunities.
The court judgment does not specify when construction will begin or when the restaurant will open. The project can now proceed subject to its approved plans and consent conditions.
Published 12-Oct-2026
