Byron Shire starts work on a community-curated night-time economy
Published on 18 June 2025
Byron Shire Council is stepping into a bold new chapter — one that celebrates creativity, connection, and community spirit, from sunrise to after sunset.
With support from a $162,800 grant from the NSW Government, early planning is underway to reimagine a section of the Byron Bay town centre as a Special Entertainment Precinct — not as a party zone, but as a curated cultural hub where locals and visitors can safely enjoy music, art, outdoor dining, and meaningful connection.
“This is about creating a night-time economy that reflects who we are — one that showcases our local people, performance, produce and products. A place where locals and visitors alike want to spend time,” Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, said.
“We’re not trying to be the next late-night hotspot,” she said.
“We’re future-proofing Byron Bay in a way that aligns with our values — inclusive, creative, connected — and driven from the ground up.
“We know there is a lot of change coming along Jonson Street, with significant new buildings and venues.
“We also need to be on the front foot and so it’s important that we, as a community, set the tone, the look, and the feel of the place.”
“The vision is clear - a safe, walkable town centre that supports local businesses and invites people of all ages to gather, perform, share, listen, and explore.
“Picture local food trails, laneway performances, Indigenous storytelling, live music under the stars, wellness events, themed fiestas, and immersive lighting installations that breathe new life into our shared spaces,” Mayor Ndiaye said.
Council will soon begin consultation with the community — from residents and business owners to young people, artists, and traditional custodians — to co-create a blueprint for the precinct.
This will include open surveys, local drop-in sessions, and a positioning paper to guide decision-making.
“What we’ve heard already is powerful,” Mayor Ndiaye said.
“We don’t want boozy, noisy, unsafe streetscapes. We want variety, safety, and creative flair.
“We want spaces where people can dance or dine — but also places where they can talk with friends, bring their kids, and enjoy a diversity of experiences that don’t revolve solely around alcohol.
“We want better lighting, easier wayfinding, more affordable options, and offerings that reflect the full spectrum of our community.
“Importantly, this initiative also addresses long-standing concerns around transport, safety, and antisocial behaviour with smart planning, improved infrastructure, and better integration with public and on-demand transport.
“It’s also an opportunity to centre and celebrate the stories of the Bundjalung people,” she said.
“Who doesn’t want to learn from the oldest living culture on earth, and deepen their connection to this country?
“We have a chance to respectfully weave First Nations culture and storytelling into the heart of this precinct — something we’re absolutely committed to.
“This funding comes at a critical time for our local creatives, performers, and small businesses, many of whom have faced significant challenges in recent years,” she said.
“It’s a chance to trial bold new ideas that support economic resilience, community wellbeing, and a safer, more inclusive Byron — while holding onto the soul of what makes this place so special.
“This project has multiple stages, and we are at the very start. It’s important for the community to know that if the special entertainment precinct does not align with Councillors, or the community’s vision for Byron Bay, it will not go ahead,” Mayor Ndiaye said.
More details will be shared over the coming months as consultation begins. People who want to be kept informed of this project should email byronsep@byron.nsw.gov.au.
“Byron Shire Council encourages everyone to get involved and help shape a night-time economy that feels like us — vibrant, welcoming, and truly alive,” Mayor Ndiaye said.
Information about the Special Entertainment Precinct is on Council’s website.