The Golden Arches are returning to downtown ѻý. But not in a super-sized format.
McDonaldѻý is planning to take over the premises currently occupied by the Bean Scene coffee shop at 371 Bernard Avenue.
“The site is located in a vibrant commercial area and aims to provide a modern, accessible, and community-friendly dining experience,” reads part of a development permit application submitted to the City of ѻý.
Alterations that are described as minor will be made to the facade. The two-storey brick-fronted property was built in 1930 and covers about 3,700 square feet of leasable area, according to the BC Assessment Authority.
Records show the property is assessed at $2.56 million, up from $2.48 million a year ago.
“Adhering to McDonaldѻý branding guidelines while respecting local signage regulations, signage will be minimal,” the application states. “Brick finishes to remain the same as well as the original double hung windows.”
McDonaldѻý had a restaurant in downtown ѻý along Harvey Avenue until the operation was closed in 2007. The company said traffic changes had negatively impacted its business, and it launched a lawsuit against the city.
During the legal action, the former restaurant was boarded up and had its identifying marking removed. It was named as one of the cityѻý Top 10 Eyesores by readers of The ѻý Courier newspaper.
In 2020, the city bought the former McDonaldѻý site for just over $2 million, 25 per cent below its assessed value. The purchase resolved the legal issue.