Southport one step closer to Live Music Precinct

Sailboat on the Braodwater

Southport is one step closer to officially becoming the home of live music, with community consultation for a Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP) about to start.

The Southport SEP aims to develop a significant live music scene for the coast while contributing to the city’s cultural economy and reputation.

“We have identified an area of Southport where a cluster of live music venues exist and where there is opportunity to add even more,” said Mayor Tom Tate.

“This will eventually allow us to improve safety within Southport through the review of lighting, wayfinding signage, safety cameras and pathways between key transport nodes and live music venues.”

The City endorsed the investigation of the precinct in Southport in 2018 due to its existing live music venues, established public transport and the fact it is the Gold Coast’s CBD.

The benefits to Southport businesses and residents include greater vibrancy and economic output due to an increase in visitors to the precinct and support for the local music industry.

Live music venues will be required to be compatible with nearby residential buildings and the SEP will provide a regulatory framework for the City to manage noise levels. Design of new residential buildings will need to be compatible with the intent for live music venues in the SEP.

Divisional Councillor Brooke Patterson said: “The establishment of the Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP) is framed on the acclaimed Fortitude Valley model in Brisbane. We are on track with our plans for a vibrant attractive CBD and this is an important milestone.”

Venue manager of Southport’s Vinnies Dive Bar, Glenn Stewart, said it would create a cultural ‘point of difference’ for the area.

“This is a great initiative to increase the entertainment options in Southport and will showcase incredible local talent who have been doing it tough in recent times,” said Mr Stewart.

The community consultation will explain the proposal to participants and ask for their feedback on the SEP, the introduction of micro-breweries and required amendments to local law and city planning policies.

If successful, the SEP will result in amendments to the Southport Priority Development Area Development Scheme, the City Plan and relevant local laws.

There would be no fees to apply for the required amplified music venue licence and the City would assist businesses through the application and approval process.

Have your say: 23 November and Wednesday 22 December at gchaveyoursay.com.au/sep

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