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The Prediction Of ‘Small Bars’ For Sydney and New
South Wales
November 2007
For over two months now the Lord Mayor of Sydney has been
in the media commenting on the need for Melbourne style boutique bars in Sydney
and has been successful in lobbying the State Government for the introduction of
such establishments throughout New South Wales.
It is predicted that though there will be a initial impact not only in the
Sydney CBD but also regional suburbs and country centres it is expected that it
will be used as a mechanism to bring into line the currently non-conforming
dine-drink operators.
In all of the hot air of creating these boutique style bars which can hold a
limited number of clients, besides the set up cost in terms of reduced licensing
costs, there has been no discussion as to what is required to make a boutique
bar financially viable beyond the fit out. This of course should be one of the
most important questions asked. There is no down side to the Sydney City Council
they still will generate the same if not more approval and construction
certificate grant fees, with no real concern as to the long term viability of
these venues or their impact on surrounding outlets or the social impact on the
local community.
After a number of trips to the deregulated Melbourne market it became apparent
that the cost as a consumer to drink in Melbourne establishments either in the
City or in the suburbs was significantly more expensive than that of Sydney
Hotels.
The final detail of this proposal will become apparent in the current review of
the Liquor Act and Regulations.
Bligh Williams
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