I would not support this application for the following reasons: The venue already has a large private outdoor space that does not encroach on the public domain. The venue has multiple indoor dining options. The specific footpath is already congested with pedestrian traffic. The awning provides temporary cover in inclement weather for the general public (as it is intended to), congestion with seating and tables will potentially force pedestrians onto a busy road. I believe it is incumbent on Council to also consider the venues proximity to a significant temporary residence for our homeless population and to demonstrate compassion for people who may be suffering addiction or other disadvantage; sectioning off the footpath is privileging a cohort who already have sufficient space in which to be entertained. The footpath is a public space essential for the safe movement of pedestrians and should not be auctioned off for the benefit of private enterprise and at the expense of safety and amenity. Footpaths in the inner city are too often overwhelmed by cafe/venue seating which is not being contained in designated areas along with competing obstructions such as rental bikes and signboards. Thank you
354-358 Bourke Street Surry Hills NSW 2010
- Description
- Use 13.59 sqm of the public footway of Bourke Street for outdoor dining associated with The Beresford. Proposed outdoor dining hours are between 10am and 10pm Sunday to Thursday, and betrween 10am and 12 midnight Friday and Saturday. This is a new application.
- Planning Authority
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City of Sydney
View source
- Reference number
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FA/2024/43This was created by City of Sydney to identify this application. You will need this if you talk directly with them or use their website.
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Date sourced - We found this application on the planning authority's website on , almost 2 years ago. It was received by them earlier.
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Notified - 682 people were notified of this application via Planning Alerts email alerts
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Comments - 3 comments made here on Planning Alerts
Public comments on this application
Comments made here were sent to City of Sydney. Add your own comment.
The Beresford already has a big enough footprint and enough indoor and outdoor space to accommodate the demand. Foot paths in Surry Hills are already congested and narrow by default which means that pedestrian safety and comfort are already often at a disadvantage. The location of the footpath in discussion is already a busy pedestrian area and adding further obstructions is not warranted.
Thank you
I wish to oppose this DA for outdoor tables on a public footpath by The Beresford, part of Merivale Group. The footpath is public land intended for the safe and free movement of all community members.
The Beresford already has significant indoor and private outdoor space to serve its patrons. I don't believe there is a need for such a well-established venue to expand onto a public footpath, especially when there are potential impacts to public safety and convenience.
The specific footpath is already crowded with pedestrian traffic, and adding tables and chairs will worsen the congestion, potentially forcing pedestrians into proximity with road traffic.
Surry Hills' character and charm depend on its open and accessible public spaces. Encroaching on these spaces for commercial use, particularly by a large corporation like Merivale, sets a precedent. It's not only about one establishment's expansion; it's about preserving the integrity of our public spaces against corporate exploitation.
I don't believe this application is in the best interests of the entire community. The expansion desires of a large hotel group should not override the rights to safety, accessibility, and equitable use of public spaces for all.
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