Newcastle Council To Consider Endorsing New Liquor Trading Laws

BY IAN CROUCH

Newcastle Council will hold an extraordinary meeting tonight to consider endorsing a state planning policy amendment to allow a trial of new liquor trading laws.

The endorsement would clear the way for two weeks of community consultation before the trial starts on October 1.

Around 20 bars and restaurants in the CBD are expected to take part in the six-month trial allowing small bars to remain open until 2am and restaurants to stay open until midnight serving stronger drinks such as cocktails.

Newcastle Council set to approve changes to allow for trail of relaxed liquor trading laws

Push For Tougher Lockout Laws For Newcastle City Pubs And Clubs

BY IAN CROUCH

Some Newcastle pubs and clubs could be subject to tougher liquor laws if Hunter New England Health gets its way.

The health authority has made a submission into a review of current legislation saying venues considered to be at high risk for late night assaults should be subject to tighter lockout laws.

Hunter New England Health says although there's been a 30 percent drop in the number of assaults across Newcastle pubs and clubs in the past 10 years, the rate of alcohol-fueled violence in the city is still higher then the state average.

Health Authorities Want Tougher Liquor Laws. Image: The Herald.