Recent events have made it clear that the development of the Dunedin CBD and the eclectic Dunedin arts/music scene are not compatible.

Protections for venues, artist and entertainers need to be built into regulations within Dunedin's commercial areas and these areas expanded to better reflect how and where Dunedinites engage, preform and create what is the cultural bedrock of this town.

Currently the noise complaints process and associated seizure laws under the RMA (resource management act 1991) are subjective, overreaching and destructive to the vibrancy and creativity of the city, making the staging of live events a Russian roulette with very real consequences to venues and artists alike.

The current system is subjective and complaints driven. It contains no objective measurable limits or guidelines making it impossible to adhere too.

The consequences for breaches impact venues through fines, loss of business, seizure of assets and the ability to renew their license. Similarly, they impact on musicians/entertainers and artists through fines, seizure of equipment and the loss of venues in which to preform.

We are calling on the DCC and the Mayor to take action and create bylaws that: reflect Dunedin's musical and artist roots; protect venues and artists; and support the future of Dunedin's music, arts and cultural centres.

Don't Kill Dunedin's Live Music.

We request that the DCC:

1. Develop strategies for dealing with reverse sensitivity effects (including protecting existing venues through rules in district plans)

2. Explore live music licensing options that would allow live music venues to confidently continue supporting local music

3. Expand the zone (so that it encompasses the full CBD area) in which live music is to be expected; and plan for additional entertainment hubs in the wider Dunedin city.

4. Articulate what ‘reasonable’ noise is (including for example in regards: time of day, nature of event, character of area, and boundary level dB) in such a way that regulations can be adhered to and are not ‘subjective’

5. Consult musicians, venue owners and live audio specialists on all of the above so that any regulations implemented actually reflect and support the needs of the Dunedin music community; and finally

6.For the council to allocate funds towards investigating an equitable solution regarding live music and noise control.