ALBURY Council is facing another potentially contentious concession on parking spaces in relation to the Drome Street adult entertainment venue.
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Hot on the heels of the still to be fully resolved Black Uhlans bikie gang function centre proposal, the operators of the 727 Drome Street strip club and brothel are seeking approval for a $455,000 reconfiguration and expansion of the venue.
If approved, a VIP private space for adult entertainment would be created along with conversion of rooms presently used for sex services into other private viewing rooms and improved staff facilities.
Existing maximum capacity of 163 patrons will remain, but due to the proposed changes the licensed floor space will increase from 157.1 to 415.2 square metres.
Albury's planning rules state the additional licensed area would require another 74 parking spaces on top of the existing 67.
The applicant, Entourage Limousines Pty Ltd, considers the additional parking as “excessive” and has made provision for only one parking spot.
“Given the nature of the premises as a venue which serves alcohol, management will encourage patrons to attend the site via public transport or taxis,” the development application states.
“It is also the experience of the applicant that many patrons already attending the approved uses of the property frequently utilise taxi services.
“It is also anticipated that many attendees will arrive in groups rather than as individuals, again reducing likely demand for vehicle parking.
“The applicant remains committed to working with Council and other relevant organisations to improve public transport/taxi services in the location.”
The 727 Drome Street application will go before council's planning and development committee at a future date.
The same committee on Monday night rejected the Black Uhlans proposal primarily on concerns about parking requirements in and around its Townsend Street headquarters.
Council staff recommended the development application be approved with provision for 32 spaces rather than the 46 required under council's development control plan for regular club activities on the site.
The Drome Street venue is being extended at the northern end and proposed changes will result in a decrease of four rooms presently used for sex services.
