Global burger giant McDonald’s has dropped legal action against protesters fighting the chain’s plans to open an outlet in Tecoma.
The so-called “Tecoma 8” group of residents were being sued by McDonald’s over delays to the construction of the 24-hour store, including legal costs, additional security costs and loss of potential income.
“It was potentially a seven-figure sum,” said one man associated with the No Maccas in the Hills group who did not want to be identified.
He said that, despite the decision, “legal, peaceful” protest would continue at the site.
The two parties agreed to the legal action being dropped after mediation on Tuesday. A joint statement is expected later on Wednesday.
The No Maccas in the Hills group has been battling plans to open the store, including holding protests at the site and travelling to the company’s US headquarters in Chicago.
Plans for the Tecoma McDonald’s store were rejected by the local council but later approved by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal after McDonald’s launched a challenge.
The community launched a campaign known as “Burger Off” in response, using social media and even recording a protest CD featuring local artists.
