Deakin Avenue drive-through ‘safer’, says Subway

MILDURA’S Subway franchise owner claims safety will be improved by building a drive-through at the Deakin Avenue store.

Vikram Singh, who lodged the planning application approved by Mildura councillors, said he never wanted the development to create an “us versus them” situation with neighbouring businesses Pinno’s Pizza and Coral Sea Fish and Chips.

The two businesses are among the 19 objectors who claimed the drive-through plans were unsafe and inappropriate given its location between two Mildura schools.

But Mr Singh believes the drive-through will improve safety for school students, meet changing consumer needs and improve the layout of the site.

“The whole situation that has been created with big versus small — rich versus poor — there’s never been a situation like that because we’ve followed the right procedures from day one and that has taken us almost 16 months of time,” he said.

“As far as the site is concerned, our development will only improve safety for the kids, safety for night-time patrons and safety for the drivers with proper signage, properly marked carparks and properly laid-out lighting.

“We are a fast food business and want to serve good food fast … that’s what our aim is.”

Mr Singh said the development, which would follow the completion of the new Benetook Avenue drive-through, would provide more employment opportunities.

“Between the two stores, there will be 20 new part-time and full-time jobs created,” he said.

At October’s council meeting, councillors debated the development at length, eventually overruling officers’ recommendation to refuse the drive-through proposal.

Five councillors, including Mayor Simon Clemence, agreed the development would enhance the safety of the complex with alteration of the entry and exit. Four councillors voted against.

Mr Singh said the development was also part of a push by Subway as a brand.

“Subway is a global brand and drive-throughs and conveniences are a push from our brand, not from the franchisee point of view. That’s the changing consumer demand right now,” he said.

“Technology is playing an important role in how people order their food, survey their food and give feedback.

“If we don’t provide good food in a fast way, we lose business and that is the push we’re meeting.”

Pinno’s Pizza told Sunraysia Daily on Wednesday it would ask VCAT to review the decision to approve the development.

Mr Singh confirmed that if the appeal ruled in favour of the drive-through, works would start after the completion of the Benetook Avenue store.