‘Family friendly’ tavern planned for Muirhead gets green light after liquor commission overrules objectors

THE NT Liquor Commission has given the green light to a new ‘family friendly tavern’ development in Muirhead, despite a record number of objections from residents, businesses and community organisations.

An artist’s impression of the tree-lined retail precinct with a tavern proposed for the suburb of Muirhead. Picture: Supplied

• New $22 million retail precinct with tavern plan for growth suburb Muirhead

THE NT Liquor Commission has given the green light to a new “family friendly tavern” development in Muirhead, despite a record number of objections.

The owners of the former Globies sports bar in Mitchell Street, Justin Coleman and Steve Dugan, applied to transfer their old liquor licence to the proposed new Breezes retail precinct, including a bar and bistro, last February.

But the proposal attracted objections from 256 people, businesses and community organisations, by far the most received by the commission.

The commission heard the objectors feared the “destruction” of the quiet amenity of the neighbourhood, the risk of increased anti-social behaviour and an increase in poker machines, as well as the financial impact on the nearby Cas Club and Tracy Village Sports Club.

Pub owners Steve Dugan and Justin Coleman at the site of the proposed development in Muirhead. Picture: Katrina Bridgeford

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In his evidence to the commission, Mr Coleman said the new “family friendly” venue “would not be a typical Mitchell Street bar”, and would include a dedicated, fully enclosed children’s playroom.

“It was therefore apparent from the evidence that although what was being proposed was to substitute a licence that had previously been related to a premises that was a late night venue in Darwin city’s most popular night-time entertainment strip, the Breezes proposed venue in the northern suburbs was going to be very different and have a clear focus on families,” the ruling reads.

“The proposed premises are impressive and clearly are geared to cater to a market of ‘families’ in the local community area.”

Mr Coleman told the commission the tavern was the “cornerstone” of a larger $25m development that would “not stack up” without it, as the liquor and gaming licences would effectively subsidise a proposed childcare centre and other businesses.

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In granting the application, the commission stipulated that the new venue be open no later than midnight and have no dancefloor, and that live or recorded music be kept low key so as not to disturb nearby residents.