By James Atkinson
Western Australia's City of Fremantle Council this week moved to dramatically cut red tape for new small bars.
The amendment to the City's Local Planning Scheme means that restaurants will be permitted to begin operating as a small bar without further planning approval, provided they operate in accordance with previously approved hours of operation.
Fremantle Mayor, Dr Brad Pettitt said the changes aim to "attract more businesses to contribute to the diversity and vibrancy of Fremantle."
"City of Fremantle officers are continually reviewing policies and procedures to ensure they are in keeping with our overall strategic objectives, which in this case relate to stimulating economic development in Fremantle," he said.
"I'm very pleased that officers have identified this particular issue as something that was hindering the establishment of the types of businesses normally associated with a city's CBD and acted accordingly to rectify the issue."
The amendment will soon be the subject of a six-week public consultation period after which it will require Ministerial approval from the WA Department of Planning.
Small bar applicants can contact the City’s environmental health department on 08 9432 9999 or email health@fremantle.wa.gov.au for assistance in obtaining a small bar liquor licence from the Department of Racing, Gaming & Liquor.