Councillor wary of changes at infamous downtown McDonald’s with a history of drugs and violence

The councillor for Rideau-Vanier has been raising concerns regarding the McDonald's in the ByWard Market for years and now with the news that changes are coming, he's not entirely satisfied. 

In a statement to 1310 NEWS, franchise owner, Adeel Hashmi, revealed that the restaurant would no longer be open 24 hours a day and that there will be additional security when the restaurant is open. 

Councillor Mathieu Fleury said that it was a good first step but he is wary as the fast food joint has a checkered past. 

“In the past, the part-time security team they had in place got involved and started to sell drugs,” Fleury told 1310 NEWS on Wednesday. “I'm cautious of saying security resolves everything, we really need individuals in the security field that are engaged and willing to be part of the broader solution.” 

Fleury also wants to see McDonald's as a company recognize that there are several problems with this location that goes beyond hours changing and adding security. 

He wants the franchise owner or general manager to be more hands on in this process. 

“Set the expectation and be involved in the various scenarios that the security team is seeing and how they're enforcing that and how they're collaborating with Ottawa Police,” Fleury said. “Not simply washing their hands because now they have a security team.” 

Fleury wants more changes made, including a possible re-design to the restaurant itself that would see no through-traffic. 

“Put the kitchen in the middle of the facility and have a storefront McDonald's on Rideau Street, then have a McCafe Brand, which is the same company, on George Street.” 

The councillor explained that other changes are coming to the area that will also help cut down on some of the crime in the area. 

He said with the opening of light rail, the bus stops that are located in front of the restaurant will now be moving a little further down the road. 

Here is the official statement from franchise owner, Adeel Hashmi: 

As a local business owner, I too am concerned with issues in our neighborhood. We all deserve a safe and comfortable experiencewhen we visit any of the businesses in the area. After careful consideration, starting today the restaurant’s operating hours will be 6am to 10pm, every day. We will also be adding security when the restaurant is open.

I take the situation in the area very seriously and recognize the impact these changes will have on my business. Affected crew will be offered the chance to relocate to other restaurants in the area. 

I believe that this is the right thing to do for the neighborhood at this time and I look forward to continue workingwith Ottawa Police, OC Transpo and the City of Ottawa. We all have a role in helping make this neighborhood as strong and safe as it can be. 

–          Adeel Hashmi, McDonald's franchisee