Why Major Events Are Banned in Clover Moore’s Sydney: The Shocking Truth

• Council decides to keep prohibition on business activities in parks
• Lists climate change as a key worry regarding lawn deterioration

Clover Moore's council has caused anger following their decision to maintain the prohibition on large-scale events in public parks with the aim of protecting the lawns from harm.

The City of Sydney voted on Monday to maintain strict rules that have been enforced for nearly three years now in parks managed by the council.

The prohibition was initially implemented in October 2022 following the significant destruction caused by the Night Noodle Markets at Prince Alfred Park.

Only a limited number of single-day events are still allowed, such as Christmas concerts, along with events like the Yabun Festival and Mardi Gras Fair Day.

Labor Councillor Olly Arkins tried to overturn the ban, asking that Victoria Park be allowed to host up to five events a year instead of the current two.

The effort was halted because the council provided the unusual justification that 'climate change is intensifying extreme weather conditions.'

'Increased rainfall in the lead-up to and during outdoor commercial events has resulted in significant damage to large sections of the parks.'

Arkins contended that the council wasn’t ‘acknowledging the cultural significance for our residents and the economic advantages of these live events’ through their enforcement of the ban.

'It’s all about providing a justification for people to remain outdoors. While we frequently discuss the idea of a bustling 24/7 urban centre, here’s how it manifests in reality,' he stated.

Councillor Adam Worling, from Clover Moore's Council team, claimed public parks shouldn't be used for commercial events.

He also recalled the significant damage caused by the Night Noodle Markets.

'I witnessed the calamity of the Night Noodle Markets in 2022,' he said.

'The extension was pushed back due to the heavy downpour. They really messed up our park with their actions.'

He mentioned that the parks are still saturated following months of rainfall and cautioned that repairing damages caused by big groups might cost around $250,000.

Worling proposed that the events could also take place at alternative locations such as Martin Place or the University of Technology Sydney.

He urged the state government to lower the costs of hiring places such as The Domain and Tumbalong Park.

Worling noted that Victoria Park was previously home to significant performances by bands like The Angels, AC/DC, and Cold Chisel, featuring a stage constructed atop the swimming pool area.

"Why should we consign these magnificent live music events in Sydney to history, when both performers and crowds yearn for a platform today?" he asked.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns backed lifting the prohibition, stating on Tuesday, "We have to use some common sense here."

The City of Sydney Liberal Councilor Lyndon Gannon informed Daily Mail Australia that the state government was not doing sufficient work in this area.

He suggested an alternative for the Premier: why not utilize the Opera House’s forecourt more often?

And while we’re on the topic, let’s get rid of those absurd noise limits at the Domain. It would immediately inject some life back into the place.

Previously, our community parks suffered due to events such as the Night Noodle Markets. The locals were outraged.

'However, if someone presents a solid strategy that ensures the park remains open without long closures, I am fully listening.'

The Daily Mail Australia reached out to Moore, Arkins, as well as NSW Minister for Arts and Night Time Economy, John Graham, for their input.

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