Proposed concert compromise at Moore Park, Allianz Stadium faces backlash

Furious Sydneysiders are divided over a controversial idea for one of the city’s most iconic venues as locals fire up.

It’s one of the nation’s most showstopping venues — recently attracting some of the biggest names in music from Paul McCartney to Elton John — but in true Sydney fashion, Allianz Stadium has been hit with complaints over plans to expand the number of gigs there.

NSW Premier Chris Minns’ recently announced an increase the concert cap from six to 20 concerts, and it has triggered a wave of discontent among locals, who are worried about noise, traffic and parking.

This is despite the government proposing to restrict five of 20 concerts each year to a lower volume than the rest.

In a further mood dampener, the official Mardi Gras after-party would need to turn down the volume after 2am if it moved to the venue.

Of the 132 public submissions in the consultation process for the change, 106 objected, only 19 supported it, and seven remained neutral.

However, it’s clear not everyone in Sydney agrees. Separate research from Ethos Urban for Venues NSW reveals support for the expansion of concerts at the venue. Respondents said the local opposition shows Sydney is now a “grandma city”.

The NSW government's proposal to increase concerts at Allianz Stadium suggests restricting five of the 20 concerts each year to a lower volume than the rest. Picture: Supplied

Proposed modifications to concert restrictions:

1. Concert Cap Increase:

The bold proposal suggests a significant jump in the concert cap, from six per year to a staggering 20. This move aims to intensify the frequency of events at Allianz Stadium.

2. Concert Length Extension:

Another pivotal modification involves doubling the concert-length from 5 to 10 hours twice a year. While this extension seeks to elevate the entertainment value, concerns have arisen regarding its potential impact on the surrounding area.

3. Rehearsal and Sound Test Finish Time:

The proposal further suggests altering the rehearsal and sound test finish time from 7pm to 10pm, prompting questions about potential disturbances during later hours.

4. Curfew Exemption for mardi gras:

The proposed modifications include a curfew exemption for mardi gras, allowing the event to continue beyond regular hours. However, this exemption comes with a condition – maintaining a quieter volume.

The noise limit outside the stadium is 70 decibels, measured on Moore Park Road.

While the proposal maintains this limit for 15 of the 20 concerts, it introduces a reduction to 67 decibels for five.

Elton John performs at Allianz Stadium during his Sydney tour. Picture: Ben Gibson

Focus groups conducted by Ethos Urban for Venues NSW revealed differing opinions.

Concertgoers and nearby residents aged 25 to 59 generally supported increasing the concert cap.

They expressed dissatisfaction with Sydney’s night-life, citing difficulties finding late-night dining options and a perception of the city as restrictive.

“You wouldn’t come here to party,” emphasised one participant, reflecting the growing discontent with Sydney’s night-life.

Another questioned the government’s approach, asking, “Does the government want to promote having a safe night out? Or restriction, restriction, restriction? Sydney is a restriction city!”

Concertgoers and nearby residents aged 25 to 59 generally supported increasing the concert cap. Picture: Supplied

The mardi gras after-party, slated for the Hordern Pavilion in 2024, faces even stricter restrictions – an outside noise level limited to 60 decibels between 2am and 6am.

Despite a draft plan suggesting a move to Allianz Stadium due to its larger capacity, mardi gras organisers clarify that they have no plans to relocate the event.

Sport, Property, and Lands Minister Steve Kamper’s spokesman stated that the government is determined to lift the cap and bring entertainment back to Moore Park.

The proposed changes are currently under assessment by the Department of Planning, with the community awaiting a decision on the future of concerts at Allianz Stadium.