A NUMBER of concerned residents have approached me regarding the proposal to locate two fast-food outlets next to the early learning centre at Springwood.
The commercial section of Springwood was approved for development a number of years ago, allowing for a range of different types of development.
Among these are shops.
The SA Planning Code has a very broad definition of a shop, with a restaurant considered as a shop and a fast-food outlet a restaurant.
The concerns are the two fast food outlets are directly adjacent to the early learning centre, and in particular on the side where children have their outside activities.
There is the real potential that these children will be exposed to cooking odours, vehicle fumes and noise.
Also, with increased vehicles accessing the site, congestion and overall safety.
Added to this is the exposure to very persuasive advertising and promotions that could run counter to healthy eating messages.
We have serious issue around childhood obesity with familiarity, availability and pricing being key drivers.
Given where the planning approval process is, and existing legislation, there is nothing that can be formally done and approval is apparently imminent.
The question that might be posed though is the developer, Wel.Co who has marketed this site for development as a fastfood outlet, comfortable with supporting this development and exposing children at the centre to a range of risks and the potentially long-term negative consequences.
Is it time for people to be placed first?
These are my personal views.
I can be contacted on 0431 866 586 if you want information about the proposal.
Paul Koch, Gawler East
Editor’s note: A fast-food outlet is being considered but is not yet set in stone, as seen in the story on page seven.
