After making outdoor dining a permanent fixture in the city until 2025, the NSW government has announced that Enmore Road’s classification as a Special Entertainment Precinct will also be extended until at least July 2023. Giving yet another boost to Sydney’s late-night economy, the trial essentially allowed participating venues to stay open late with extended liquor trading. The trial has now been extended just as the city ushers in warmer days and longer nights.
The trial was initially set to end on Wednesday, November 30 but the Inner West Council and the NSW Government have announced its extension until July 2023 thanks to its success and popularity amongst both patrons and business owners.
“The trial has cemented Enmore Road as one of Sydney’s leading entertainment hotspots and has helped to boost live music opportunities,” Minister for Hospitality and Racing Kevin Anderson said.
Tucked between two of Sydney’s buzziest spots, Newtown and Marrickville, Enmore Road has long been considered one of Sydney’s most exciting streets with a diverse variety of food options, street art, shopping and of course live music and entertainment courtesy of mainstays like Enmore Theatre and The Duke of Enmore.
So far, eight venues have participated in the trial with more expected to join.
With extended trading privileges, venues hosting live performances and other cultural events for at least 45 minutes can extend their trading hours by 30 minutes on nights when the gigs are planned.
“The extended live performance and trading hours is like a stamp of approval, which gave us confidence to keep our shows on for more people to enjoy later into the night,” Jacquiline Cunningham, owner of the Secret Garden Bar said.
Find out more information about Enmore Road’s Special Entertainment Precinct trial on the Inner West Council website.