Allianz Stadium, a thriving entertainment and sports hub located in Moore Park, is poised to liberate itself from decades-long constraints, amidst the announcement of the removal of a concert cap.
Premier Chris Minns has increased the allowance from a mere four concerts a year to a substantial 20 per year. This move is projected to inject a significant $120 million annually into the economy of New South Wales, offering a newfound sense of vibrancy to the region’s entertainment sector.
The limitations on concert numbers at Allianz Stadium were put in place after complaints from residents following a Rolling Stones concert more than 20 years ago, citing excessive noise. Despite the curbs, the Moore Park venue continued to host an array of events.
However, Mr Minns likened the previous restrictions to the fictional town depicted in the movie “Footloose,” where rock music and dancing were banned. He affirmed that purchasing property in the bustling heart of Sydney should come with an expectation of living in a thriving metropolis, not a quiet rural town.
“For too long NSW has missed out on world-class acts because of an archaic restriction that killed fun in our city and hurt the economy,” he said.
“Sydney is Australia’s only global city and now it will finally be able to host more global acts on the world stage.”
Whilst the cap has been lifted, a responsible approach remains in place. An 11:00 p.m. noise curfew will continue to be enforced, except during the Mardi Gras after-party event, should it relocate to the Moore Park precinct in the future. This ensures that the interests and quality of life of residents are safeguarded.
The decision to lift the concert cap has garnered praise from various quarters. ARIA chief executive Annabelle Herd anticipates more opportunities for international and Australian acts to grace Sydney’s stages. The economic impact is significant, with an expected annual boost of $120 million. Moreover, the move signifies the potential for Sydney to once again become a global hub for renowned artists and entertainers.
Sport Minister Steve Kamper underscores the cost of the previous red tape, asserting that a facility of this magnitude cannot be restricted to just four concerts a year. This move aims to revitalise the city’s visitor economy and support the struggling nightlife industry.
Business Sydney executive director Paul Nicolaou lauds the decision while urging the government to extend the Metro rail network to Moore Park and confirm plans to overhaul the nearby Entertainment Quarter. These initiatives could further transform the Moore Park precinct into a thriving cultural hub.
Of the 20 major events allowed annually, two will have the flexibility to operate as 10-hour festivals, akin to Wave Aid, running from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. This diversity in programming ensures a wide range of entertainment options for Sydney’s diverse population.
Published 26-Jan-2024
