No stand-up cocktails at Peasant’s

The City of Vincent refused the zoning change from eating house to tavern at last Tuesday's council meeting.

Restaurant manager JackiO'Hara said she submitted the application following several requests for stand-up cocktail functions at the restaurant.

"We want to do it to facilitate and meet the needs of the people in the community," MsO'Hara said. "I believe there is a market niche for what we are trying to achieve."

Project manager Mario Sequeira said he had been working on the proposal for the rezoning since November last year.

"It would still be subject to approval from liquor licensing," Mr Sequeira said.

"It would be just like the current restaurant but would give them the opportunity to take bookings for functions."

Councillor Roslyn Harley said she had several concerns about the proposal.

"A tavern zoning allows for the sale of packaged alcohol," Cr Harley said.

"This venue is already allowed to serve alcohol inside without food; I don't understand why tavern licence is needed.

"My understanding is that TAB can be opened under that licence too. I don't feel like there are enough safeguards."

Cr Emma Cole said the application was a bridge too far.

"In terms of taverns in Mt Hawthorn, you have the Paddington Ale House and then you'd have this; these are very different venues."

Mayor John Carey said he was disappointed with the approach from the applicant and would not support the request.

"I think it is the thin edge of the wedge," Mr Carey said.

"If it was to be sold on and changed, we could be looking at a very different beast."

Cr John Pintabona supported the application and said he felt the zoning would suit the restaurant's location.

"I think the approval in that location would work," Cr Pintabona said.