The Causeway Bar in Victoria Park faces an uncertain future.
Camera IconThe Causeway Bar in Victoria Park faces an uncertain future. Credit: Supplied/Elle Borgward

Bar’s future hinges on hours extension

Staff ReporterSouthern Gazette

James Crabtree (23) and Simon Crossland (25) have applied to the Department of Racing, Gaming and Liquor (DRGL) for an Extended Trading Permit so their popular bar can stay open until 2am on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

But the Town’s Built Life executive manager Robert Cruickshank has recommended councillors reject the proposal, which the duo outlined to councillors at last Tuesday’s briefing session.

Councillors will make a decision on the proposal at tonight’s meeting and this will be forwarded as advice to the DRGL, which will make its final decision in coming weeks.

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Mr Cruickshank has recommended objection because extended hours were not in the public interest as it would be detrimental to its intent for Albany Highway and have an adverse impact on nearby residents.

But Mr Crabtree told councillors the business would be sold immediately if extended hours were not granted, as it was no longer financially viable.

‘We are now losing money. I’m a businessman and I can’t lose money and continue to run this business,’ Mr Crabtree said.

He also said he had the support of Kensington Police Station OIC, Senior Sergeant Ash Goy, and read a letter from the police officer who said he had no objection to the extended hours as the bar had not attracted any undue police attention.

But Sen Sgt Goy told the Gazette the letter contained his personal opinion only, and not that of the 37 other officers at the station, or the South East Metropolitan District Office.

‘I based it on there being only half a dozen complaints in the past year which is pretty good,’ he said.

‘It’s part of moving with the times. It won’t be too long before the Burswood Peninsula has a 70,000-seat stadium and more hotels, so it’s inevitable.’

Teague Street resident Kimberley Brown addressed councillors and implored them not to support the application as late night revellers leaving nearby licensed premises already caused disruption with anti-social behaviour including her cars being urinated on and broken into, smashed bottles, trespassers and loud music.