By ANNA USHER

North Sydney Council has voted to remove community tables and chairs at Hayes St Wharf in Neutral Bay, despite hundreds of online objections from residents.

Last week, Mosman Collective revealed at least 20 seizure notices had been placed on the outdoor furniture, warning council rangers would take possession of it on March 13.

The seating has been used by locals and customers of nearby café Thelma & Louise, operated by Marilyn Nohra, who has run the business at the site for 21 years.

Ms Nohra said the space had been used without incident for several years, including during the pandemic when furniture was placed on adjacent public land due to indoor dining restrictions.

She said she believed the furniture fell within outdoor dining rules and noted the café carries public liability insurance. She also said the business pays about $100 a week in outdoor dining fees to council.

At Monday night’s council meeting, Councillor Efi Carr moved an urgency motion to suspend enforcement action, arguing the council had been heavy-handed.

“Residents use it throughout day and evening, irrespective of whether they purchase anything from the cafe,” Cr Carr said.

“The furniture remains available after trading hours, and the community has come to rely on it as informal public infrastructure in an area that has no comfortable seating.”

Cr Carr also said locals had long pushed for an upgrade to the space, but council had refused, citing budget constraints.

Councillor MaryAnn Beregi said she had received complaints about the condition and placement of the furniture.

“I have had calls which say that the furniture is rusty, old and dangerous. It impedes accessibility for those who have accessibility issues and the elderly, especially people in Lansdowne Gardens,” Cr Beregi said.

She said some of the furniture was “unsightly, dangerous and is contributing to what interrupts a beautiful view”.

Mosman Collective understands only one complaint had been made to North Sydney Council about the furniture.

Opposing the motion, Councillor Shannon Welch said the site had become a “collection point” for mismatched, broken and discarded furniture.

“At times, there are dirty cups and plates left overnight, overflowing bins and food waste that attracts vermin,” Cr Welch said.

“Residents have raised, to me, serious concerns about hygiene and the growing rat problem.

“This isn’t about opposing public seating. It’s about maintaining a public space properly.”

Councillors voted 7 – 3 to proceed with the removal order.