Newcastle Council support for boutique bars

Newcastle Council staff will continue working on developing a draft policy for venues such as small bars, after Councillors supported a motion at their meeting last night.

They recommended staff persist with the preparation of a draft night-time economy policy that includes smaller boutique style venues, with a view to releasing the plan by the end of the year.

Thousands of people have signed a petition supporting small bars in Newcastle.

Labor Councillor Nuatali Nelmes says diversity in venues is crucial.

"Yes we need to develop a night time economy that has some diversity, some different cultural pursuits as well as different options instead of large drinking areas," she said.

"The issue of small bars has been raised by many members of the community in a petition and I think bringing the motion to Council shows that Council is behind the small bar movement.

Source: ABC News, 27 June 2012