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McDonald’s has withdrawn its application for a restaurant in Moama.

On November 28, McDonald’s withdrew its application to have a restaurant at the site on 44-48 Meninya St, Moama, but the Riverine Herald understands the site’s landowner, of Pigatto Superannuation, is in discussions with other convenience restaurants to open at the site.

The withdrawal coincides with a Murray Shire Council decision on Tuesday to give approval for a restaurant at the site.

It is expected the landowner will have secured a restaurant by mid-January.

A spokesperson for McDonald’s said plans for the Moama store were withdrawn by its market research department for ‘‘a number of reasons’’.

The spokesperson said in considering new locations, McDonald’s evaluated factors such as the availability of a franchisee, population growth and long-term viability.

‘‘While we’re no longer actively pursuing a restaurant in Moama, we may well reassess in the future,’’ the spokesperson said.

The landowner and applicant told the Riverine Herald the withdrawal was due to a change in management structure.

A original condition of consent for approval was that the restaurant’s opening hours be restricted to 6am to 11pm Sunday to Thursday and 6am to 12am Friday and Saturday.

During discussion time, councillors debated whether the development should be allowed to open for 24-hour hours, seven-days-a-week.

The planner acting on behalf of the applicant said the store would only utilise the 24-hour opening hours during peak periods such as weekends or holidays.

Cr Gavin Burke said he supported the development.

‘‘If ever we need something in Meninya St, we need it now,’’ Cr Burke said.

‘‘I would support it with no restrictions.’’

Cr Betty Murphy said she would support the 24-hour opening hours if it was subject to a six to 12-month review.

Cr Ian Moon moved a motion to allow the development 24-hour opening hours, subject to a 12-month review, and Cr Burke seconded it.

The motion was carried unanimously.

Have your say: What convenience restaurant would you most like to see at the Moama site? Take your pick of seven options in our poll (right).