Lockout laws: Mike Baird considering delaying loosening of bans until late summer

EXCLUSIVE: Mike Baird is considering delaying a loosening of lockout laws until late January, with revellers now facing bans until late summer.

• LOCKOUT LAWS NEXT ON THE AGENDA FOR BAIRD

PREMIER Mike Baird is considering delaying a much ­anticipated loosening of lockout laws until late January — raising the prospect of revellers facing bans until late summer.

Government insiders said the premier was concerned about the PR image a vicious one-punch attack during these months would have on the softening of the laws.

There is just one cabinet meeting left this year — on Thursday, December 15 — for Mr Baird to relax the lockout laws. It is understood he has told colleagues he may wait until next year.

Critics say Sydney has become a ghost town since the introduction of the lockout laws.

Mr Baird’s spokesman yesterday hosed down speculation: “There is further work being done by Liquor and Gaming NSW on issues around maintaining a vibrant night-time economy in Sydney. The government still intends to respond to the Callinan Review before the end of 2016.”

The Daily Telegraph revealed in October that then deputy premier and justice minister Troy Grant had a Cabinet minute prepared that would extend closing hours from 3am to 3.30am and lockout times from 1.30am to 2am.

Street violence is down since the lockout laws came into affect.

The laws are also supposed to push takeaway alcohol sale closing times statewide from 10pm to at least 11pm.

The changes would confine “three strikes” rules to the _­operators of establishments, not owners of the property.

The Daily Telegraph understands close colleagues are trying to persuade the Premier to change the lockout laws via regulation by the middle of this month.

Government insiders said the premier was concerned about the PR image a vicious one-punch attack during these months would have on the softening of the laws.