We live on Kingsley Street close to the old Cheeky Monkeys site.
Council staff have recommended approval for Justin Hemmes’ Merivale venue, despite 65 objections from concerned community members.
I’m sure they are terrified of his legal clout. Council staff have recommended some important and sensible conditions be placed on any approval and we applaud them for that.
But it’s not enough.
They need to defer this process until Merivale has submitted their updated acoustic management plan and plan of management.
The community needs to see the details and have the opportunity to respond.
They need to address all of the mistakes in their original acoustic report, which neighbours made Council aware of last year. They need to move all outdoor patrons inside at 10pm, not just those in the rear courtyards.
Please hold your ground Council. Your community needs you to be strong on this.
Mike and Tilly Hale, Byron Bay
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
