Boost for city’s businesses as council plans to leave lights on
Logan City Council will pave the way for more businesses to open their doors at night, allowing the economy to thrive after the sun goes down.
The City of Logan is putting the call out to businesses with the potential to expand or set up night time activities in centres throughout the city.
Council’s Night Time Economy Strategy will include a range of measures to grow the City of Logan after hours, creating a safe, diverse and inclusive city which champions local business.
Council will review costs for businesses applying to open later, and revisit requirements placed on venues such as bars to reduce noise which impacts the surrounding area. Development application fees will be reviewed.
Council will also look to utilise vacant shopfronts as ‘pop-ups’ for businesses and services. Land acquisition for a standalone dining precinct is also being considered.
It is hoped targeted investment attraction funding will encourage large food and entertainment brands to open in the city.
Economic Development Chair, Councillor Jon Raven, is excited about creating new evening dining and entertainment options, while ensuring residents’ safety.
“There are many opportunities to improve our night-time offerings for local families, who should be able to enjoy themselves without having to drive to Brisbane, Ipswich or the Gold Coast,” Cr Raven said.
“We can build something tailored for the needs, tastes and budgets of our residents.”
The strategy will also encourage more footpath dining.
Division 10 Councillor and Deputy Economic Development Chair, Miriam Stemp said the strategy was a priority for locals.
“The development of a night time economy has been a common theme from our residents in giving feedback at city centre summits undertaken by Council,” Cr Stemp said.
Recent additions to Logan’s night time economy offering include the Distillery Road Market precinct at Eagleby, Kingston Butter Factory, and Club Noir in Loganholme. In addition Area 51 at Underwood plan to open an Asian market early next year, similar to the Eat Street format at Northshore. The recent FLAME Jimboomba event highlighted the demand from the community for local, evening events.
The strategy follows a month-long public survey answered by more than 300 respondents, of those, 67 per cent said they wanted more to do in the city at night.
To get involved and obtain more information on Logan City Council’s Night Time Economy Strategy, please contact Council at [email protected] or have a read through the Strategy yourself by heading to the Logan City Council website.
