MLK Deli in Surry Hills has been blocked from using footpath space for outdoor seating, a practice that has sparked safety concerns and resident complaints.
Mlk Deli Told To Remove Outdoor Seating After Local Complaints In Surry Hills
MLK Deli, a popular eatery in Surry Hills, has been told to stop using part of the footpath for outdoor dining after complaints from nearby residents led to a formal review by the City of Sydney Council.
MLK Deli’s plan to add tables and benches to 12 square metres of footpath was knocked back, with council citing safety rules and a lack of space for pedestrians.
Council Denies Application Over Footpath Width And Safety
The City of Sydney said the deli’s plan breached Outdoor Dining Guidelines, which require at least two metres of clear footpath. The proposed layout would have reduced it to 1.5 metres.
Owner Myra Karakelle said the extra seating aimed to ease indoor crowding and improve safety after nearby tree branches fell. She called the refusal unfair, citing council support for outdoor dining.
Community Concerns Led To Investigation
Nearby residents raised concerns about noise, litter, and safety on the narrow footpath. One claimed the deli had previously placed stools outside without approval, prompting a complaint.
The council confirmed that these issues were taken into account when making its decision. Council staff carried out a site inspection before formally refusing the application.
Deli Owner Accepts Decision But Remains Disappointed
Karakelle said she’d remove the outdoor furniture as required, though she felt a small group of locals may have influenced the decision. Despite her disappointment, she values the Surry Hills community and plans to keep operating within the rules.
Council records show each outdoor dining application is assessed individually, with rules in place to protect public space and pedestrian safety in busy areas.
Published 15-April-2025