Sydney Bar Barricaded by Construction, Owner Blasts Developers

A popular Sydney bar, Palms on Oxford, experienced an unexpected closure on Thursday night. Construction work related to the 'Oxford & Foley' development project barricaded the bar's entrance, preventing patrons from entering. The bar's co-owner, Michael Lewis, condemned the developers for their perceived lack of communication and consideration, stating they had received zero notice.

Mr. Lewis highlighted that this closure occurred during a typically busy period for the bar and resulted in staff being sent home. He expressed that this incident is the latest in years of what he describes as contempt and disregard from developers undertaking the Oxford Street upgrades. The 'Oxford & Foley' project by the TOGA Group will feature office space and a new hospitality laneway.

Local community members have voiced their dissatisfaction with the situation, calling it unacceptable and urging for better management of development impacts on existing businesses. Concerns have also been raised about the ongoing gentrification of Oxford Street and the nature of new retail businesses opening in the area.