Community concerns over late-night precinct plan for Byron Bay

CONCERNED community members gathered on Tuesday night to discuss the potential impacts of the proposed Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP) in Byron Bay.

The meeting, held at the Byron Bay Community Centre, was organised by the reactivated Byron Residents’ Group and drew a cross-section of locals, including doctors and healthcare providers.

Byron Bay is set to become the first town outside Sydney to trial a SEP under a state government initiative aimed at revitalising the night-time economy. The SEP model allows extended trading hours for hospitality venues and encourages live music and cultural events.

While the initiative aims to support local businesses and boost tourism, it has sparked concern among residents about its broader social impacts.

Key issues raised included the potential for increased alcohol-related incidents, especially after hours and on weekends, as well as the effect of noise and late-night activity on the quality of life for both residents and visitors.

There are also fears that the SEP could further cement Byron Bay’s reputation as a party destination, attracting crowds who may disrupt rather than enrich the local community.

Other concerns include inadequate infrastructure to support a safe nightlife environment, including limited lighting, insufficient police presence, lack of public transport and gaps in CCTV coverage. There were additional worries about the pressure an expanded nightlife could place on local medical services.

The SEP concept was introduced by the Minns Labor Government as part of a broader effort to rejuvenate NSW’s night-time economy. Enmore Road in Sydney became the state’s first permanent entertainment precinct in 2023.

The program gives local councils the authority to extend trading hours and adjust noise regulations within designated zones, while offering venues protection from noise complaints.

Byron Bay’s proposed precinct would cover the area bounded by Bay Street, Jonson Street, the rail corridor, and Middleton and Browning Streets.

Byron Shire Council has received a $162,800 grant from the NSW Government to facilitate community consultation and engage with local businesses on the proposed changes.

An information session hosted by Locale Consulting on behalf of the Council will be held at Byron Community Centre at 5pm on Tuesday August 12.