By Ian Neubauer
Resident groups in Newcastle have initiated a class action suit against pubs they claim are responsible for alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour in the NSW city.
The groups claim that earlier closing hours and a mixed bag of new restrictions imposed on 14 late-night venues in March last year have not done enough to improve public safety.
"At least two inner-city resident groups and a number of residents have now re-initiated or re-launched the class action," community campaigner Tony Brown told the ABC. "Much more needs to be done in Newcastle in terms of reducing alcohol-related violence."
A spokesperson for the NSW Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing (OLGR) confirmed today (Mar 4) the Director of Liquor and Gaming had received four disturbance complaints supported by 27 residents against licensed venues operating in the Newcastle CBD and Hamilton areas.
The spokesperson said the director is currently meeting with residents, police and licensees to investigate the complaints.
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