More Fun, Food, Festivals and Filming

Member for Manly, James Griffin has welcomed a proposal to permanently slash red tape to allow for more live music, arts venues and artisan food and drink businesses.

Mr Griffin said, the NSW Government is seeking community feedback on the initiative to help cultural, arts and hospitality venues to flourish.

“This is a great initiative, especially for the Manly electorate where entertainment venues complement our relaxed ‘beaches’ lifestyle.

“Many in the hospitality, entertainment, arts or live music industries have struggled over recent months and we want to see these industries thrive as restrictions ease and our economy re-opens,” Mr Griffin said.

Member for Pittwater and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Rob Stokes said instead of finding reasons why things shouldn’t happen, we’re throwing out the old rule book to transform shops into art galleries or music venues and make it easier to set up food outlets.

“Live music or performances will be permitted in just about any retail setting, while food trucks and dark kitchens can go ahead anywhere with landowner’s consent, provided they meet certain criteria,” Mr Stokes said.

Temporary events being held on council-owned land will also be encouraged under the new package, along with the removal of a 30-day cap on filming on private property without a Development Application, to make it easier for film and television producers. Applicants will be required to adhere to strict conditions to take advantage of the new guidelines.

Mr Griffin said, “The proposed measures are aimed at making rules around temporary events easy to understand and allow councils to hold fetes, markets, music and sporting events on council-owned land without planning approvals.

“After months of restrictions, we want to see our local centres come alive, so we’re doing everything we can to entice people back to our suburban parks and high streets, and boost the ‘fun factor’ in our local communities,” Mr Griffin said.

For more information and to have your say by 22 November, visit:

www.planning.nsw.gov.au/fun-sepp