THE possibility of fast-food restaurant Oporto coming to Bathurst has generated a great response from the community.
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An article was published on the front page of Saturday's Western Advocate stating that Oporto was in discussions regarding a site in The Gateway development in Kelso.
The article was posted to the newspaper's Facebook page that morning. The post received close to 400 comments and, through the original post and shares, generated more than 5000 engagements.
While there were some who were critical, many of the comments showed support for the idea of the fast-food chain setting up shop in Bathurst.
"That's great. I'm a big fan of Oporto and can't wait," Harun Rashid wrote.
Joanne Sherlock described the idea as "bloody marvelous" and said it would be "great for Bathurst" to have Oporto here.
A couple of commenters put forward their own suggestions for fast-food outlets they would prefer to have in Bathurst, with the ideas including Hogs Breath, Nando's, Grill'd and healthy options like Sushi Train.
The feedback on Oporto has been welcomed by councillor Alex Christian, who described it as "overwhelming positive".
He is a vocal advocate for new businesses, like Oporto and Taco Bell, to come to Bathurst, for both variety and to provide local jobs.
"People love variety and Oporto and Taco Bell bring that to the community," Cr Christian said. "People are so excited they are prepared to travel from Lithgow to eat at these places."
He feels the reaction from the community so far could be the push Oporto needs to progress its Bathurst idea.
"The community eagerness to embrace Oporto should excite any prospective franchisees," he said.
"Bathurst will embrace this company with open arms."
While Oporto has shown an interest in Bathurst, plans have not progressed beyond discussion of a potential location.