Comments made here were sent to Inner West Council. Add your own comment.
We do not need YET another tobacconist on Norton St, we have far too many already!
Please no more tobacconists in Leichhardt, there's already so many. Literally anything but a tobacconist.
Please, NO more tobacconists - of which there are already far too many on Norton St alone. This space should benefit the Leichhardt community, not take away from it by selling harmful products. Further, We have numerous grocers along Norton St, and 3 supermarkets. This application should not be permitted.
I strongly object to the proposed tobacco retail premises l.
There are legitimate planning and public interest grounds to refuse this application:
1. Public Health and Legislative Intent - The Public Health (Tobacco) Act 2008 and associated regulations clearly aim to reduce smoking uptake and restrict visibility and accessibility of tobacco products. Approving new tobacco outlets directly undermines these objectives, particularly in established residential communities.
2. Recent Regulatory Crackdown and Risk Profile - NSW has introduced strict licensing (from July 2025) and aggressive enforcement powers, including immediate closure of non-compliant premises and significant penalties. Over 200 closure orders have already been issued, demonstrating the high-risk nature of this industry and its links to illicit trade.
3. Amenity and Safety Impacts - Evidence presented to NSW inquiries highlights associations between tobacco shops and anti-social behaviour, crime, and community safety risks. These impacts are inconsistent with the desired character and amenity of Leichhardt’s local centres.
4. Planning Merit and Lack of Strategic Need - There is no demonstrated strategic or community need for additional tobacco retail in this locality. The use does not contribute positively to the local economy, streetscape activation, or community wellbeing compared to other permissible retail uses.
Given the inconsistency with public health objectives, the increasing regulatory burden and enforcement risks, and the adverse impacts on local amenity and safety, this proposal lacks planning merit and should be refused consent.
The absolute last thing we need in Leichhardt is yet another tobacconist. I cannot believe that Council allowed a tobacconist to open directly opposite Rozelle Primary School. I regularly see young people walking around under about age 14 vaping. This a major health issue and needs to be addressed and under strict control.
I strongly object to the proposed tobacco retail premises. There are enough of theses shops. Can we have something that helps connect the community.
I object to this application including tobacco sales.
IWC has already recognised that there are too many tobacconists and vape stores and has supported stronger controls. Approving another one on Norton Street is inconsistent with that.
Given the widespread issue of illegal tobacco and vape sales, approving yet another tobacco retailer seems naive. Council should refuse the tobacco sales component.
I live in the Forum. I have 2 tobacconist/convenience within 200m on both sides of Norton St. There is another in Norton Plaza. That’s more than enough.
To: Inner West Council
Subject: Formal Objection to Development Application DA/2026/0311
Dear Planning Department,
I am writing to formally object to the Development Application DA/2026/0311 regarding the proposed tobacco and vape retail outlet at 162 NORTON ST LEICHHARDT NSW 2040.
As a local resident, I am deeply concerned about the impact this development will have on our community, specifically:
Public Health and Community Impact: Norton Street is a hub for families and young people. Introducing a business that primarily focuses on the sale of tobacco and vaping products is contrary to the community's interest in maintaining a healthy, family-friendly environment.
Proximity to Youth: The proposed site is in close proximity to areas frequently accessed by minors. The normalization of these products in such a prominent location poses a significant risk to the health and well-being of our local youth.
Character and Suitability: Norton Street is defined by its vibrant cultural, dining, and retail mix. A dedicated tobacco and vape store does not contribute to the character of our neighbourhood and sets an undesirable precedent for future commercial development in the area.
Reference to Council Policy and Previous Resolutions:
I would like to draw the Council's attention to its own consistent stance regarding the proliferation of tobacco and vape retailers in our local area. In February 2024, the Council unanimously passed a Mayoral Minute, resolving to seek new regulatory powers to curb the spread of these outlets, specifically citing concerns about their proximity to schools and areas where children congregate. Furthermore, in October 2025, the Council reiterated its call for stricter planning controls, emphasizing that the density of these stores poses a tangible threat to the health of our youth. Approving this application would be in direct contradiction to these publicly minuted resolutions and the Council’s stated commitment to protecting the well-being of the Inner West community.
I also don't understand how the premises is currently classified as a restaurant as it's clearly not a restaurant and only sells packaged items like soft drinks and packets of chips.
I urge the Council to prioritize the health and long-term interests of the Leichhardt community and refuse this application. I know you already feel strongly about tobacco retailers so hope you walk the talk and decline this one.
Thank you for your time and for considering the voices of the residents who will be directly affected by this decision.
