The reason given by Council (and the state government) for the proposal to create a vibrant Special Entertainment Precinct in central Byron is to ‘revitalise the day and night economy after the slow-downs caused by Covid, natural disasters, and other economic pressures’.
It is claimed that old and new businesses along Jonson St, need help to cater for more ‘local culture, creativity, and business’ – read ‘nightlife’.
I take it that these ‘new developments’ are those new, shiny three-storey buildings popping up everywhere, replacing existing buildings and businesses, and full of expensive – mostly tourist – accommodation, with rooftop pools, bars and eating areas – perfect for late-night entertainment!
This SEP will allow longer opening hours and alcohol service, and an increase in accepted levels of sound! Who would have thought?
These changes will no doubt help to fill those new venues and keep the pubs happy, but what benefit will there be for the residents, already dealing with more cars, pressure on parking, lack of public transport, high rental costs, and concerns for public safety – not to mention ubiquitous potholes?
Apart from perhaps increased opportunities for some local musicians, talk of increased ‘vibrancy’ and the potential to encourage Byron’s artistic and cultural creativity is a tired trick to appeal to an already-lost Byron uniqueness. And I wonder what benefit the daytime economy will feel – the cafes and restaurants which struggle to pay rents and to keep staff who find it hard to get affordable housing?
The paltry government kickstart grant of $162,800 will be swallowed up in consultancy fees. Perhaps our local economy would be better improved by helping us build more social and affordable housing, public transport, better roads and drainage to help us deal with the climate challenges. And as for the ‘shiny new developments’ perhaps their challenges are more about profit rather than improvement?
Christine Willmot, Byron Bay
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