Locals to fight “sex-on-premises” venue on City Rd at VCAT

The City of Port Phillip’s recent approval of an “adult lifestyle meeting place” on City Rd opposite the Montague Precinct will be challenged by locals in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

In May, Southbank News reported that 30 residents and business owners had objected to plans for the “swingers’ club” to be established in South Melbourne, labelling the proposal as “inappropriate for the area”.

A planning application from the Pine Bar was submitted to the City of Port Phillip seeking to convert a two-storey building at 427 City Rd into a “burlesque bar” that would operate seven days a week.

Under the plans from applicant Emanuel Cachia of Pine Bar, the new venue comprises a main ground floor area that would host live entertainment events including live music, DJ, comedy, cabaret, and burlesque.

Tony Baenziger, who owns architectural business Baenziger Coles on City Rd, was among those against the plans, arguing the venue would detract from the area and create safety and security concerns.

But on June 19, the City of Port Phillip approved the plans with councillors voting five to three in favour in support of the 200-person sex-on-premises venue as per the recommendation from its planning officers.

Deputy Mayor Louise Crawford, one of the five councillors to vote in favour, told the meeting that the decision was based on applying the planning rules and not “about moralising” a business.

While a permit was granted with a number of conditions, including acoustic works and noise vibration testing prior to opening, locals who opposed the application have since launched a petition which they will take to their appeal at VCAT.

Sue Coles, the other half of Baenziger Coles architects, called on support from locals to oppose the approval.

“This location is entirely inappropriate for such a venue, given its proximity to residential areas, schools, and family-oriented businesses,” Ms Coles said.

“Despite numerous objections from residents and business owners, the council has granted a permit that disregards the character and values of our neighbourhood and what the area should try to aspire to in the future.”

Mayor Heather Cunsolo told Southbank News that the council was aware of the VCAT appeal.

“Our council will advocate at VCAT for its decision to grant a planning permit for 427 City Rd, South Melbourne, to be used for an adult lifestyle meeting place,” Cr Cunsolo said.

The council report provides the reasoning for the decision, which although wasn’t unanimous, was supported by a majority of councillors.

Mayor Cunsolo added that a minor amendment was made to parking out the front of venue, including two one-hour street parking spaces to be reallocated as 10- or 15-minute short-stay spaces from 6pm to 8am.

But Cr Marcus Pearl, who voted against the proposal, voiced significant concerns.

“In my view the proposal did not meet acceptable planning or amenity requirements,” Cr Pearl said. “Local residents and businesses are rightly concerned about the impact the venue will have on the local area.”

Cr Pearl further highlighted the strategic importance of the location, adding, “This part of South Melbourne is a key commercial and office area that will be critical for the future employment needs of our city.” •