It has not pleased some councillors who argued the community had not been properly consulted.

The zone was required in 2012 after owners of the suburban shopping centre gained deferred approval for a liquor store.

But the decision came after public objections. Neighbours were worried the store would promote anti-social behaviour in a residential area where people’s lives were already “compromised by drugs and alcohol.” 

Although under pressure from the community, councillors conditionally approved the liquor store. Full approval kicked in once it obtained a liquor licence and an alcohol-free zone, 24-hour security and CCTV cameras.

Owners obtained the liquor licence on March 27 last year. It carried restrictions on retail hours, liquor sales area and required security cameras, reporting of incidents and membership of the Goulburn Liquor Accord.

Now the proponents have asked Council to delete the alcohol free zone requirement.

They also sought approval for additions to the rear of the shop, enclosing the front veranda for retail space and reconfiguring the internal shop fit-out.

Planners have recommended a six-month trial to judge whether the zone is warranted.

In a submission, police said they had no objection to the trial but would like to meet with Council to discuss the zone’s future after that time.

But at Tuesday night’s meeting Cr Andrew Banfield opposed any such move.

“I speak against it because I recall there was a very large community outcry about the store being in that area,” he said.

“That has not changed and the alcohol free zone was put there because of those concerns…I think it should remain in place.”

Mayor Geoff Kettle asked whether Cr Banfield was taking account of the police submission, which raised no objection.

Cr Banfield replied that “incidents” had occurred there previously and while it wouldn’t affect sales, it would impact on neighbours.

Cr Robin Saville agreed the zone should stay, while Deputy Mayor Bob Kirk suggested the DA be deferred.

“While I’m not arguing against other parts of the modified DA, I believe consultation (on removing the alcohol free zone) is not quite completed and I think we should do that,” Cr Kirk said.

He didn’t get the chance to move the motion. Councillors voted five to four to approve the store modifications, including a six-month trial to see if an alcohol free zone is warranted.

Mayor Geoff Kettle and Crs Margaret O’Neill, Sam Rowland, Denzil Sturgiss and Alfie Walker were in favour while Crs Kirk, Banfield, Robin Saville and Carol James were against.

“If, following the trial period, Council receives advice from NSW Police regarding the need for an alcohol free zone, the process of establishing the zone will take approximately six weeks,” planning director Chris Stewart stated in his report.