(Credit: Royal Premier Development)
London City Council has approved a plan that, if approved by the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, will result in a new McDonald’s restaurant with a drive-thru to be built on a northeast London floodplain.
The plan for two commercial buildings at the southeast corner of Adelaide Street and Windermere Road has been met with opposition by some city council members because the area is at risk of severe flooding and has in fact, experienced it in the past.
Royal Premier Development sought to remedy these concerns by including what Ward 11 Councillor Skylar Franke describes as a ‘moat’ in their plan. Franke, who voted against the plan in Tuesday’s council meeting, says improved drainage won’t prevent flooding in the area.
The area of Adelaide and Windermere after experiencing severe flooding in 2018. (London Police Service/Youtube)
“I really don’t think that is a compelling reason to [approve it]”, said Franke, “Just because something is said to be floodproof. Given the impacts of climate change… we know that this area floods pretty much every year and floods significantly… This development will be, eventually, underwater, regardless if there’s a moat and drawbridge”.
Ward 6 Councillor Sam Trosow also noted that the buildings can be built elsewhere and don’t have to be on a flood plain.
“There are plenty of opportunities for drive-thru fast food operations in this city that do not [have to be placed] on a floodplain”, he said.
The plan was passed with 10 in favour and 5 opposed. Those opposed include councillors Franke and Trosow, joined by Ward 9 Councillor Anna Hopkins, Ward 13 Councillor David Ferreira, and Mayor Josh Morgan.
The plan will now await approval from the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority.
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