Market Lane Cafe Faces $21,000 Outdoor Seating Fee Shocking Locals
- A local cafe revealed it faces a $21,000 fee for outdoor seating from its council.
- The cafe's owner criticized the Northern Beaches Council for not waiving this fee like the City of Sydney has.
- Community members expressed outrage, indicating the high fees contribute to local economic struggles.
Market Lane Cafe, located in Manly on Sydney's Northern Beaches, has brought attention to the exorbitant annual fee of $21,000 imposed by the local council for outdoor dining. The fee has drawn public outrage, especially in contrast to measures taken by the City of Sydney which has waived such fees until June 2025 to support local businesses. The cafe's owner expressed frustration over the Northern Beaches Council's decision to maintain this high fee, asserting that outdoor dining is essential for business viability. Acknowledging the significant financial burden, locals have reacted on social media, accusing the council of being greedy and contributing to the increase in empty shopfronts in the area. Despite justifying these fees through a valuation process, the community sentiment suggests a desire for more supportive measures towards businesses struggling financially in the current economic climate.