Rezoning proposal threatens grassroots arts scene
Image: The Red Rattler, Marrickville. Source: Flickr
By Emily Contador-Kelsall
The Marrickville arts and music scene has expressed concerns for the livelihood of its culture in light of rezoning proposals.
Marrickville Council recently endorsed a rezoning proposal for the Victoria Road precinct in a 6-5 vote.
At their September 2nd meeting, Council resolved to notify the Department of Planning and Environment of their decision to approve moving the proposal through the Gateway planning process.
Jamie Ferguson from Marrickville’s Red Rattler Theatre [the Rat], a not-for-profit and community run initiative said venues like The Rat and other start-up creative spaces wouldn’t continue to flourish if they were overshadowed by high-density buildings.
“The rezoning would change the entire character of the neighbourhood and not for the better.”
“The Red Rattler loves the diversity of the area and its semi-industrial landscape. It suits our grassroots approach, style of gigs, performances and our parties.”
Mr Ferguson said the developer who spoke at the council meeting basically said that no-one on would ever deliberately choose to design a neighbourhood “this ugly”.
“Quite frankly, I think that’s very insulting. A judgment like that indicates no real understanding of our area and no appreciation for the areas current gritty style.”
Marrickville’s arts and music scene has thrived over the past few years and become an important part of the community.
Independent Councillor Victor Macri, who voted in favour of the proposal’s progression, said the music and arts venues were a great part of the community and Marrickville’s quirky venues gave the area flavour.
“The proposed developments don’t threaten the arts scene at all; a large majority of the property won’t change from the current use.”
Cr Macri said revitalisation of the area should be key, and the proposal gives council an opportunity to look at ways to improve the precinct for the community.
“It’s a very run-down area; there are a lot of ongoing issues.”
Despite this, Mr Ferguson said Marrickville was a shining example of a live music precinct.
“Considering the current discussions around extending the geographic area of lockdown laws and now this rezoning proposal, The Rattler’s existence now seems under threat.”
A key concern of The Red Rattler is that the rezoning will affect their ability to keep expenses low and the venue accessible: “Any increase in operational and compliance related costs would be a real challenge for our not-for-profit model of operation,” said Mr Ferguson.
“The likelihood of noise complaints and security issues are also a real concern. These issues always seem to come hand and hand with neighbourhoods that become gentrified and over populated with residential housing. “
Mayor Jo Haylen said the proposal will change the colour and shape of Marrickville: “We have to make sure it is a change for the better.”
At Tuesday’s Council meeting, Mayor Haylen moved a Mayoral minute to ensure a “comprehensive community consultation process regarding the Victoria Road Precinct Planning Proposal”.
Mr Ferguson said the Greens Councillors were in support of The Rat’s viewpoint: “They produced a petition and will no doubt continue to advocate against the rezoning on behalf of the community.”
“The irony is that whilst live music and creative industries seem to be buzz topics when it comes to the economic contribution they make to Sydney here we have councillors supporting proposals which would negatively impact our ability to operate!”
