Save Dunedin Live Music spokesman David Bennett was disappointed his concerns were not included as a separate item on the agenda at the annual plan deliberations last week.
"It’s always disappointing to hear stuff like that," he said.
"We will be following up on those things that we spoke about in the hearing within the framework of the live music action plan and through our continuing work with DCC and planning, but it is disappointing to not have it on the agenda for the annual plan."
Mr Bennett’s submission, along with 30 others, was concerned about the viability of live music amid stringent noise regulations.
He had told the council venues that catered towards theatrical productions did not fit the scope of live music performances.
Nonetheless, during a discussion about Dunedin’s theatres, debate ensued about whether a proposed mid-sized theatre could accommodate the live music scene.
Cr Jim O’Malley suspected the live music scene had been given false hope because of confusion about what certain venues would be used for.
Following the closure of the Fortune Theatre, the council was presented with an option inside the Sammy’s building.
He said it seemed the two events had landed on top of each other.
"I think the live music scene didn’t realise that from that point on they were probably excluded from the argument, and no-one’s ever ever said that out loud to them," Cr O’Malley said.
"Where is live music when it comes to this new venue — I think we can colour by today’s debate that it is nowhere and I think we need to make sure that is really clear right up front.
Cr O’Malley said the council needed to be really clear on whether live music would be included in discussions about the mid-sized theatre venue.
Mr Bennett said he agreed with Cr O’Malley’s comments.
"We have close ties to the theatre community, and they understand and we understand that the two disciplines have very different needs in what venues there are."
"The music scene will make do with any resources that it possibly can under any circumstances, but the music in the city has been overlooked for far too long."
"It’s always expected to make do with what it can in places that don’t quite suit it."
When asked why Mr Bennett’s submission was not addressed at the annual plan deliberations, a council spokesman said it would be at a future meeting.
Staff were finalising a draft for the live music action plan which would respond to the issues raised.
The new district plan included provisions requiring new centre city apartments to be protected from noise through acoustic insulation, and these requirements were being reviewed to ensure they were adequate.
He said music was an integral part of Dunedin’s identity, "which is why we are working hard to support a strong and vibrant live music scene".
tim.scott@odt.co.nz
PIJF Cadet reporter
