Surf and sun bayside suburb Cronulla, which has one of the most vibrant daytime economies in Sydney, could soon also boast a night time economy equally as pulsating with more live music and dining.
The NSW Government announced this week it has been green-lighted to be the state’s 12th Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP).
It provided Sutherland Shire Council $187,000 funding under its SEP Kickstart Grant program to trial for 12 months in the Cronulla CBD.
The precinct includes bars, pubs, cafes, restaurants, clubs and shops between Gerale Street and Wilbar Avenue. These venues will have longer opening hours, and be offered incentives for more live music and dining ideas.
Sutherland Shire Council expanded on its website, “When night falls in Cronulla, the bars beckon and the best of them range from slick, bright drinking dens with ocean views to tucked-away small bars for a more intimate experience.”
Recommended are Next Door, Meadow Music Room, Croydon Lane, or The Blind Bear.
“The annual Cronulla Jazz & Blues Festival also generates a whole lot of welcome noise for the nation’s live music scene In addition to regular gigs at venues around Cronulla.
“Cronulla may have played a starring role in the 1981 hit Puberty Blues. But the beachside suburb of today is now fabled for having so much more to offer.”
Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy John Graham said: “Already one of Sydney’s best day time destinations, Cronulla’s night-time economy will start to catch up, as it becomes the state’s first ever beachside Special Entertainment Precinct.”
24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues explained the SEP model was set up to be adaptable to different settings.
“Councils are best placed to work out what makes sense in their context. Cronulla is well placed to embrace a SEP trial and encourage visitors and locals to visit the beach and stay for the nightlife.
“Consultation is key, and this trial will help Sutherland Shire Council work with local businesses, creatives, residents, police and other local leaders to get the settings right.”
Added Sutherland Shire Council mayor Jack Boyd, “Cronulla is already one of the best places in New South Wales to enjoy a meal, catch up with friends, listen to live music or spend time by the beach, and is also the only beach with direct train access, and this trial gives us the opportunity to build on those strengths.
“As NSW’s first beachside Special Entertainment Precinct, Cronulla is leading the way in showing how a thriving night-time economy can coexist with a great lifestyle, strong local businesses and a vibrant community.
“This important initiative will provide local businesses with greater certainty and opportunities to grow while creating more reasons for residents and visitors to stay local and enjoy everything Cronulla has to offer after dark.
“Importantly, this is a 12-month trial. We will closely monitor its implementation and any unintended impacts to ensure the precinct continues to deliver positive outcomes for businesses, patrons and residents alike.”
Since the Minns Labor Government came to office SEPs have been established in Tamworth, Dulwich Hill, Marrickville, Balmain, Leichardt, Rozelle, Marrickville, Canley Vale, and Canley Heights.
Over 20 more councils are preparing to establish entertainment precincts including Goulburn, Burwood, Parramatta, City of Sydney, Ryde, Hornsby, Northern Beaches, Waverley, and Canterbury-Bankstown.
