A popular Wollongong dining precinct has been left empty after a sudden ban on outdoor seating, with local business owners labelling the move a disappointing setback for the city centre.
Fire Safety Concerns Force Closure
Crown Lane can no longer be used by restaurants and bars for outdoor dining due to fire safety issues linked to the neighbouring Wollongong Central shopping complex. The directive from Fire and Rescue NSW has compelled Wollongong City Council to enforce the ban, impacting venues along the laneway.
Council has begun working with directly affected businesses, including the bar Humber, to remove outdoor dining infrastructure "as soon as practically possible." In a statement, the council emphasised that community safety was its top priority.
Business Owner Invested Heavily in Area's Appeal
Adam Murphy, owner of Humber, expressed profound disappointment at the decision. He revealed his business had privately invested tens of thousands of dollars in beautifying the surrounding area.
"We've sunk a lot of money, time and effort into trying to make this area as nice as possible," Mr Murphy said. "We all know this area is a bit neglected, and it's just disappointing to have the image of the area go backwards."
His contributions included installing street planters, lighting, and other features on Western Crown Street at his own expense, items he said the council was unable to fund.
A Blow to CBD Vibrancy and Nightlife
Mr Murphy stressed the impact extends beyond lost seating. The greenery, lighting, and music in Crown Lane created a lively atmosphere that helped attract people to a part of the CBD that needs activation.
"There's a lot of effort on improving nightlife in the CBD, and obviously it feels like we're sort of taking a step backwards with these sort of setbacks," he said.
The laneway had been identified as a key location in the council's Wollongong City Centre Movement and Place Plan. It successfully hosted the temporary Laneways Live festival in 2022, attracting more than 250 people, with outdoor dining noted as a "key improvement."
Mr Murphy acknowledged the council's difficult position, noting they had initially received written advice from fire authorities before the outdoor project proceeded, but that advice had since changed. "Council have really been let down as well ... I believe they wanted it to stay," he said.
The laneway will remain temporarily closed to vehicles between 5 Crown Lane and Crown Street to maintain pedestrian access. Council says it will continue to work with stakeholders to explore both short and long-term options for activating the space while ensuring fire compliance.
