local - 2026-05-31

Manly Votes to Trial Extended Trading Hours and New Noise Rules in Bid to Revive Night-Time Economy

Northern Beaches Council approves an 18-month Special Entertainment Precinct trial for Manly's town centre, but residents raise alarm over noise levels and quality of life

Northern Beaches Council has voted to proceed with a landmark 18-month trial that will reshape the rules governing Manly's night-time economy — but the decision has sparked a fierce community backlash, with residents raising funds to mount a legal challenge before the ink is even dry.

Northern Beaches Council has voted to proceed with a landmark 18-month trial that will reshape the rules governing Manly's night-time economy — but the decision has sparked a fierce community backlash, with residents raising funds to mount a legal challenge before the ink is even dry. The Manly Special Entertainment Precinct (SEP), expected to commence this spring pending state government approval, will introduce extended trading hours and a new, consistent noise framework across Manly's town centre. The vote at last Tuesday's council meeting was not without controversy, with Deputy Mayor Candy Bingham among those who voted against the proposal, citing inadequate protections for the approximately 8,000 residents who live within the precinct area. What Changes Under the Trial Under the proposed SEP, outdoor trading hours would shift to allow venues to open from 6am every day — slightly earlier than the current 7am start for public areas — while the evening cut-off would extend to 10pm on weeknights and 11pm on weekends. The most significant change for indoor venues is the extension of restaurant trading to 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, bringing them in line with hotels. For...