Inner West Council is proposing six new Special Entertainment Precincts (SEPs) across the local government area, now open for public comment. The planning proposal outlines changes to local planning controls that would enable extended trading hours, outdoor dining until 11pm, and a consistent framework for managing entertainment sound.
The proposed precincts are located in Balmain, Dulwich Hill, Leichhardt, Marrickville North, Marrickville Town Centre and Rozelle. The existing Enmore Road SEP would also be expanded to include the Warren View Hotel and an adjoining property.
The initiative supports live music, cultural activity, and hospitality venues in key town centres, while also introducing new sound controls and requirements for noise-sensitive developments.
Objectives and Legal Framework
The planning proposal is made under Section 202 of the Local Government Act 1993. It also supports the goals of the NSW Government’s 24-hour Economy Strategy and Council’s Local Strategic Planning Statement.
SEPs aim to provide consistency in how entertainment sound is managed. At the same time, they allow venues to operate with more certainty, while nearby residents benefit from clear sound limits.
Where the Precincts Are Located
The proposed precincts are located in:
- Balmain (Darling Street between Arthur and Ann Streets)
- Dulwich Hill (including the village centre and New Canterbury Road)
- Leichhardt (Norton Street and Parramatta Road)
- Marrickville North (Victoria Road corridor and Addison Road)
- Marrickville Town Centre (Marrickville Road, Illawarra Road, and surrounds)
- Rozelle (Darling Street and parts of Victoria Road)
Each area was selected for its zoning, existing venues, and access to public transport.
Planning Controls and Management Plan
Council has prepared amendments to the Marrickville and Leichhardt Development Control Plans. These changes introduce ‘Sound Category Areas’. Each area has a defined noise level limit depending on the time of day and week.
New homes, schools, and health facilities near a precinct must include soundproofing. Developers will need to submit an acoustic report with any development application to confirm compliance.
Council also prepared a Special Entertainment Precinct Management Plan. This document sets out responsibilities for Council, Liquor & Gaming NSW, businesses, and residents. It outlines how complaints will be handled and how each precinct will be reviewed over time.
How Sound Complaints Will Be Managed
From 1 July 2024, Liquor & Gaming NSW will manage all entertainment sound complaints related to licensed venues. Council will continue to oversee sound issues from unlicensed businesses. NSW Police will only respond in emergencies.
Unlike the current system, SEPs use specific noise level limits. These limits are based on decibel readings and apply at set times throughout the day and week. This change helps avoid disputes by removing the need for subjective judgement.
Venues in SEPs can apply to trade one hour later than their existing development consent allows, up to 2am. They can also offer outdoor dining until 11pm. However, businesses offering adult entertainment or sex services will not be eligible for extended hours.
What the Community Said
Council invited community feedback from 7 March to 7 April 2024. A total of 457 submissions were received. These came through online surveys, emails, phone calls, and drop-in sessions.
Most precincts received strong support. Marrickville North and Marrickville Town Centre each recorded more than 90 per cent support. Dulwich Hill, Leichhardt, and Rozelle also had high support. Balmain received 66 per cent support.
In response to this feedback, Council made several changes. These included:
- Removing part of Norton Street in Leichhardt, due to nearby residential properties
- Adding properties along Addison Road to Marrickville North
- Excluding the Great Club from Marrickville Town Centre SEP while further work is carried out
- Ensuring adult entertainment venues cannot access extra trading hours
What Happens Next
The Inner West Local Planning Panel reviewed the proposal on 30 May 2024 and supported its progression. Council formally submitted the plan to the NSW Department of Planning on 25 June 2024. A Gateway Determination was issued, and the proposal is now on exhibition.
The plan aligns with Council’s Local Strategic Planning Statement and Employment and Retail Lands Strategy. It also supports state goals to build a vibrant and well-managed night-time economy.
Council will also create an expression of interest process to allow isolated venues to apply for SEP status in the future.
Project Timeline
The proposal is currently on public exhibition. After the exhibition period ends, Council will consider all community feedback before deciding whether to proceed with the amendment. If approved, the changes are expected to be finalised and gazetted by April 2025.
To view the proposal in full or make a submission, visit the NSW Planning Portal at: https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/ppr/under-exhibition/inner-west-special-entertainment-precincts
