Hobart City Council favours North Hobart pub culture

A North Hobart karaoke bar’s bid to open into the wee hours has sparked a debate about the suburb’s night-life.

Kevin Meng of Superstar karaoke will be able to stay open after midnight in line with the hours of surrounding venues. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

A NORTH Hobart karaoke bar has won the right to open to 3am after Hobart City members sided with the venue rather than council officers.

Once coronavirus restrictions on bars are lifted, Superstar Karaoke will be able to stay open after midnight in line with the hours of surrounding venues.

Planning officers had recommended council refuse the bar’s application for extended hours because it would have an “unreasonable impact” on surrounding residents.

However, the recommendation was rejected 10-2.

Council heard that the pub next door — The Winston — was allowed to open until 3am, as was the nearby Queens Head.

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Alderman Damon Thomas said it seemed like “discrimination” if the karaoke bar was forced to close hours earlier than larger venues nearby.

Deputy Lord Mayor Helen Burnet, who voted for the motion, said the residential nature of the area should be respected.

“This is not the main entertainment area of Salamanca,” Cr Burnet said.

Alderman Marti Zucco said the karaoke bar was “in the middle of a restaurant and pub area”.

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