Lord Mayor Invites Musicians to Parramatta

16 May 2008

The Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Cr Paul Barber has invited musicians and entertainers across Sydney to come to city of Parramatta after the proposed abolition of the PoPE (place of public entertainment) process in forthcoming planning reform.

“The overhaul of the laws is a big win for the people of Parramatta. What this bill means is that pubs, restaurants and cafes will no longer have to jump bureaucratic hurdles if they want a bit of live entertainment in their establishments,” the Lord Mayor said.

“It was just absurd that you could put a huge plasma screen in a pub with barely any limitation but to have a jazz band, it would suddenly cost you $100,000 in red tape and approvals. This is more about cultural reform than anything else and Parramatta City Council welcomes these new laws.” the Lord Mayor said.

Parramatta City Council has made it a priority to create an urban environment that has a night life scene that is cultivated, enjoyable and safe. From Church Street to the riverside, Parramatta now plays host to hundreds of restaurants, bars and cafés

“This new legislation will do more for the employment of musicians and artists than any grant. It will also do much to reverse the negative effect that poker machines and loud TV screens have had on our people and our city,” the Lord Mayor said.

“From pianists, to singers, to jazz bands to comedians, we welcome you to come to Parramatta and create a buzz for the people who already enjoy one of the best night spots in Sydney,” the Lord Mayor said.