A development application for the fast food chain was lodged with Port Stephens Council on September 25, seeking approval for construction of a McDonald's off Medowie Road including a McCafe and PlayLand, a seating capacity of 90 and 45 car parking spaces.

The corner site operation is in the right location, according to longtime Medowie resident and councillor Chris Doohan. "The restaurant is in line with the Medowie town centre master plan and while the DA may be permissible as far as the DA is concerned, I am interested to hear both sides of the debate," he said.

"Medowie is a growing town and I have no doubt this would provide jobs for our youth but I also understand the concerns from some in the community. For this reason I urge everyone with an interest, for or against, to make a submission."

Online comments have been split with those in favour and those in opposition.

A report from the applicant states that considerations have been made about the potential impacts relating to environment, noise, crime prevention, social and economic impacts. "Visual impacts can be managed and mitigated through design, operational protocols, and opportunities made available to the DA site."

A council spokesperson said that the process for commercial applications of this type was to notify the adjoining neighbours. "We will be doing this from October 2 to 16." Submissions can be sent to council@portstephens.nsw.gov.au quoting DA16/2019/616-1.