Artarmon: Hampden Rd brothel proposal sparks objections from residents
Plans for a brothel in a north shore shopping strip have sparked concerns from residents with fears the area is fast becoming known as Sydney’s “suburb of brothels”.
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A plan by a massage parlour to permanently operate a brothel in a north shore shopping strip has rustled feathers among business owners and surrounding residents.
The Artarmon Massage Centre has lodged a development application to Willoughby Council to expand its operations to include sex services at 84 Hampden Rd.
The application states the business would have five staff members working on a rotational basis from 8am to 2am, seven days per week.
The $40,000 proposal includes adding extra rooms on the first floor of the building along with a disabled waiting room, ensuites and a reception area.
The centre said the parlour has offered therapeutic massage including sex services in three rooms on a provisional arrangement since 2018 and that an expansion to five working rooms was warranted as the trail had resulted “no visible impacts” upon local shops.
Public feedback on the plan has proved mixed with residents raising concerns about the proximity to schools and shops.
“It is a main road containing restaurants, cafes and shops – children and families pass by every day,” one submission stated.
Other residents said they were not opposed to the “type of business” proposed, however raised concerns about the “concentration” of brothels in the Artarmon town centre.
“This will only lead to a broader classification of Artarmon being recognised as the suburb of brothels, attracting clientele travel from all other parts of Sydney and leading to an unsavoury experience for families who would otherwise enjoy the village-like dining experiences,” another submission stated.
The application stated there was demonstrated demand for the business due to two other approved brothels at 1/78 and 116 Hampden Rd.
“The proposal would unlikely cause any significant disturbance or amenity impact on the surrounding area or alter the character of the Hampden Rd local shops in any significant way,” the plans stated.
“It may potentially enhance the viability and vitality of the local centre in giving it to appearance of being occupied, particularly during its night time operating hours.”
The current B2 zoning of the site allows a range of retail, business, entertainment and community uses.
The North Shore Times has contacted the applicant but did not receive a response at the time of publication.
The proposal is currently under assessment by Willoughby Council.