NORTHBRIDGE entertainment venue operators fear they may have to close under new noise regulations being considered by the City of Perth.
The City plans to designate Northbridge as a special entertainment precinct in its planning scheme to help it manage conflicts between noisy venues and residential areas.
The amendment is part of a broader package of noise management reforms the City has been working on with the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage and the Department of Water and Environmental Regulations.
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READ NOWThe City’s proposal includes a “core area”, where sound levels of up to 95 decibels will be allowed for new entertainment venues, and a “frame area” with an allowable level of 75 decibels.
The core area is roughly bounded by Aberdeen Street, William Street, Roe Street and Parker Street.
The frame area would surround the core and roughly follow Newcastle Street, Stirling Street, Wellington Street and Fitzgerald Street.
There are about 40 entertainment venues and 149 residential premises and several short stay accommodation premises in the proposed core entertainment area.
A survey found about two thirds of the entertainment venues in the core area already operated at less than 95db.
There are about 20 entertainment venues throughout the proposed frame entertainment area and about 609 residential premises and 12 short stay accommodation premises.
The owners of two entertainment venues in the frame area said the new measures would compromise the viability of their businesses.
One owner said they might have to close because costly works to reduce noise and higher operating costs.
A City report acknowledged it would be difficult for existing entertainment venues to comply with new noise regulations but they would reduce noise complaints and build the night-time economy.
There are no changes proposed for entertainment venues outside of the precinct.
Commissioners will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, December 4, to discuss the proposal.
People who want to have a say can register their interest via Engage Perth.
