Special night zone to become permanent despite concerns from local residents

However, other venues using the relaxed rules did not participate in the survey.

James Thorpe, whose Odd Culture Group owns The Duke of Enmore hotel, said so herald this trade had increased dramatically since the pilot began.

“Anecdotally, it was really successful,” he said. “We’ve definitely put on more live music since it was announced, we’re definitely acting half an hour late. I know there are four or five other venues that are also benefiting.”

After reaching a unanimous agreement at Tuesday’s meeting, the council will submit a planning proposal to the state government to make the entertainment district permanent. In an unusually candid summary, it warned that Enmore – like other inner-city suburbs – was at risk of gentrification.

“The live music and entertainment offerings that have drawn people to the area are often found to be disruptive as residents’ circumstances change, leading to noise complaints against venues,” the council said in its proposal.

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In a concession to residents, city councils agreed to accelerate a park review from 2026 to this year and implement a “good neighborhood” management strategy.

Mayor Darcy Byrne said: “We know there is great public support for what we are trying to achieve, but we want to make sure this is maintained and that the success of the borough is not undermined by neglecting issues that are now could be addressed.”

The poll collected 215 comments from visitors, most of whom supported the district.

“Sydney desperately needs more urban living – and more culture and vibrancy,” one person wrote. “Having spent some time in European cities, Sydney is embarrassing [sic] just before exciting interesting artistic and cultural activities at night. We need more small, quirky places that do interesting things.”

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Local residents were less enthusiastic, with one complaining that Enmore Road, instead of King Street, was being “attacked” in Newtown for nighttime activities.

“The noise has increased,” wrote another. “Graffiti exploded in the area. I’m tired of cleaning it off my walls. garbage has increased. More crooks later [sic] at night and drunk.”

Labor has said it wants the dedicated entertainment districts to be used more widely if it wins the state election. Enmore Road is the only pilot project that has taken place to date.

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