Sydney Bar Owner Slams Developers Over Sudden Forced Closure
The owner of a popular Sydney bar has launched a scathing attack on developers, accusing them of showing "contempt and disregard" after the venue was forced to close its doors unexpectedly due to construction work. Palms on Oxford, a well-known establishment on Sydney's rainbow strip, was unable to welcome patrons on Thursday night after its entrance was barricaded off for upgrades to Oxford Street led by the TOGA Group.
No Notice Given for Construction Work
Co-owner Michael Lewis expressed his fury at the situation, revealing that the bar received zero notice about the construction that would block their entrance. "Forced to close tonight due to the sidewalk being dug up out the front of our premises, zero notice, zero concern, seven staff and performers sent home," the bar stated in an emotional Instagram post. The message continued: "What a disgrace, five years of hell and the pain continues without an end in sight, let alone a phone call, letter under the door or even the slightest regards for our staff or business."
Photographs shared by Palms showed the entrance completely cut off by two large orange cones and a 'footpath closed' barricade, making it impossible for customers to ascend the stairs to the bar. Lewis emphasised that this incident was just the latest in a series of grievances, stating: "No notice, no discussions, no opportunity to adjust trading hours, staff, etc. To say we are livid is an understatement, latest affront in a long list of being treated with contempt and disregard for many years."
Impact on Business and Community
The closure occurred during what would normally be a busy period for the bar, specifically during Faux Fur's "Wild Wednesday" show. Lewis questioned how the situation could ever be considered workable or safe, highlighting the disruption to both business operations and community events. The bar's Instagram post also sarcastically referenced their heritage status, asking: "Thanks for the nomination as a heritage LGBQTI+ business?"
Local residents have expressed strong support for the bar and frustration with the developers. One comment directed at Sydney Mayor Clover Moore, Sydney Council, and Independent Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich stated: "This is unacceptable, we want the developments done but my goodness it’s so overdue and then the businesses are suffering enough, why make it harder?" Another local lamented the gentrification of Oxford Street, saying: "I'm so sick of Oxford Street being gentrified. It’s a disgrace that they’ve opened up retail shops in the new spaces."
Oxford & Foley Development Project
The construction work is part of the ongoing 'Oxford & Foley' development project on Sydney's rainbow strip. According to the TOGA Group, the development will include:
- 7,600 square metres of office space across two signature heritage buildings
- 2,300 square metres of bespoke ground plane retail
- Views of the CBD and Sydney Harbour
- A new hospitality laneway
The TOGA Group's website describes the project as "right in the heart of where Sydney’s inspired talent, locals and visitors want to be," but local businesses like Palms on Oxford are feeling the negative impact of the construction process. One community member called for immediate action, stating: "The development company must fix this up ASAP. I hope there’s suitable compensation for this."
The Daily Mail has reached out to both Palms on Oxford and the TOGA Group for comment on the situation, but responses have not yet been made public. The incident has sparked broader conversations about how development projects affect established local businesses and communities during construction phases.
