A trial, aimed at boosting the Newcastle night-time economy by extending trading hours of small bars and restaurants kicks off this week.
The trial will see 24 low-impact bars and restaurants throughout the city have their hours extended to 2am and midnight repectively.
City of Newcastle has thrown its support behind the state government-led trial, by leading a data collection project that includes a baseline community survey which has attracted close to 1,000 responses.
The project will also include on-the-ground surveys of patrons visiting participating venues as well as an app for venues to log information about business performance during the trial period.
“City of Newcastle’s Newcastle After Dark Strategy was unanimously supported by Council in 2018 and is a plan for creating a safe, vibrant and diverse night-time economy,” Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
“This trial offers people an opportunity to enjoy Newcastle’s emerging small venue culture, support local business and help unlock our night-time economy.”
Venues that are taking part in the trial include 5 Sawyers, Scratchleys on the Wharf, Grain Store, Babylon, The Signal Box, MEET, and Valerie’s Pizza Parlour.
“We expect the 24 participating small bars and restaurants will see a positive outcome through increased patronage and activation in the city,” Cr Nelmes said.
The trial will run until April 2021.
