AS a young person who lives and owns a business in Subiaco, I feel incredibly disheartened by Subiaco council. Discouraging small bars only perpetuates that special Perth problem – the bulging beer barn. Fewer venues means everyone has to squash into existing barns and fight to be heard, fight for a drink, fight for the toilet and then fight everyone who wants a cab at the same time. Talk about anti-social. More choice means people are spread out and relax in a venue that suits them – whether it’s a groovy wine club, a jazz cafe or a sports bar. This equals less crowding, happier punters and better behaviour. It’s proven to work everywhere else, why not in Subiaco? It is also disappointing in the extreme to see icons such as Lords, the markets and the cinemas being swallowed up by yet more apartments. Where is our civic space? Why can’t I find somewhere to eat my sandwich? The world’s best cities are dotted with green corners where people can do this and more. Have a bit of faith. Surely, Subiaco should be more about community and less about KPIs? - Sarah Allchurch.