Decision details

2026/553060

Recommendations

It is recommended that the Forum review the installation of outdoor dining treatments and the reallocation of parking on the western side of Ross Street, Forest Lodge between the points 10 metres and 21.8 metres (2 car spaces) north of Alfred Road.

Forum Members for this Item

Advice

The Forum raised no issues with this Item and noted the following comments raised:

·         While acknowledging the importance of supporting local businesses and fostering vibrancy within the city, concerns were expressed that the proposal involved a licensed venue extending its operations into the public roadway of a predominantly residential street, rather than a typical footpath dining arrangement.

·         It was also noted that the proposed outdoor dining area would be located directly below nearby residential properties and questioned whether the location was appropriate given its residential context and stated that the venue already had access to several outdoor areas and argued that there was no demonstrated need for additional outdoor space.

·         Concerns were raised regarding inconsistencies in the advertised size of the proposed dining area and whether the proposal appropriately considered the City's outdoor dining policies, parking impacts, and access arrangements.

·          A request was made that the proposal be refused or, alternatively, that the application be subject to further assessment and re-exhibited to allow the community an opportunity to comment on accurate and complete information

In response, City staff advised that the area is currently unrestricted parking and that the City's Neighbourhood Parking Policy supports the use of such spaces for alternative purposes, including outdoor dining where there is demonstrated demand.

Staff further advised that any outdoor dining approval at this location would be temporary and subject to annual review.

Background

In October 2020, the City and NSW Government entered a partnership to revitalise the city centre, establishing a $20 million CBD Revitalisation Fund to boost the local economy and invite the public safely back to the city. One of the initiatives in this partnership is the rapid roll-out of temporary outdoor dining areas by reallocating kerb spaces to increase dining capacities for businesses.