Melbourne is known for its bustling nightlife with an array of pubs, clubs, bars, and restaurants, but there are some other venues a little more promiscuous in nature. The CBD is a popular destination for gentlemen’s clubs and other establishments. But one proposal in South Melbourne is leaving residents up in arms.
The proposal involves a club that plans to open on the popular City Road in South Melbourne, but many neighbours and business owners believe that it is inappropriate for the area. This proposal is for the current standing bar called the “Pine Bar” to be transformed into a burlesque club, open seven days a week until 2 A.M.
The owners plan to have a ground floor area that has live music, DJ, events, comedy, cabaret and burlesque. The venue will have a cap of about 200 patrons, which concerns locals with families due to safety concerns. It’s not simply a matter of having a bar but the issue is what kinds of crowds it might attract and the kinds of individuals walking the streets at night.
While the owner maintains that they won’t be operating as a brothel, the venue is applying for a ‘sex on premises venue exemption’, which has locals concerned. Those opposing the plans maintain that it is not good for the area and should not go ahead. The potential of intoxicated persons being present during the early hours of the morning, or late at night, is a concern for some local businesses.
No matter what the outcome is, the question remains about how this type of venue will affect locals. While some parts of the city may be more suitable for these kinds of events there is still the question of safety which is the primary concern.
The council is still to decide on the matter.