Beach 162, Frankston wins bid to cater for more patrons
THANKS to a community campaign, a popular Frankston live music venue has claiming victory over the council red tape that threatened to shut it down.
South East
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SUPPORTERS of a popular Frankston live music venue have shed tears of joy after its bid to cater for more patrons got the green light.
Frankston Council on Monday night voted 7 — 1 in favour of increasing Beach 162’s patron cap from 74 to 120 following passionate pleas from backers and owner Miriam Jamil.
Ms Jamil said it was critical patron numbers were boosted so the venue could both grow and cover overheads including rent.
BEACH 162 PLEADS FOR CAPACITY INCREASE
She said it operated from a large site and already had a enough seating to cater for extra customers.
“We are part of the community and we are a community hub. We are struggling with rent and this is an opportunity for council to allow us to grow,” she said.
Ms Jamil said customers were being knocked back due to the cap of 74 patrons.
A supporter, former mayor James Dooley, said the venue was family friendly and deserved support.
Bill Dettmer, former artistic director of the Frankston International Guitar Festival, said: “It provides a safe haven for musicians and families. It’s a top restaurant.”
Cr Steve Toms said it was essential that council supported small business.
Cr Sandra Mayer said: “This place has become an institution in Frankston and I would hate to see it go. They’re doing their best to survive.”
But Cr Quinn McCormack said some neighbours had complained about noise and anti social behaviour involving patrons.
“There are some concerns in the surrounding neighbourhood,” she said.
Mayor Colin Hampton voiced concern about the impact of increased patronage on parking.
The area was occasionally “chockers with cars” due to the proximity of other venues, he said.
Councillors voted to put in place measures to protect the parking amenity of nearby residents.
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