Clover Moore is pushing for Sydney to “catch up with the rest of the world” and to develop a vibrant night-time economy, asking cafes, galleries and retailers to stay open at night. This follows her move last year to curb troublesome pubs and clubs, which was branded as shutting down the city at midnight by those in the hotels industry. Although it might seem like a backflip, the new policy has the same aim: by attracting a larger non-drinking population into the city at night, it is hoped that it will lead to a reduction in alcohol-related incidents, not to mention the boost to the city economy, and living up to the global city tag. But how realistic is this vision? Currently, retailers can stay open as late as they wish, but choose not to do so since it isn’t profitable. The success of Art After Hours at the Art Gallery of NSW and Jurassic Lounge at the Australian Museum show that Sydneysiders are happy to spend their evenings in cultural pursuits, and seasonal events like the Sydney Festival and Vivid draw crowds to the city, but can it work on a daily basis? The city’s cultural and retail hot-spots are scattered throughout the CBD, meaning people will need to get around the city at night, as well as eventually get home. Anyone who has been in the city after 2am will know that late night transport has never been Sydney’s strong suit. Getting home won’t be a problem for the growing number of people who live in and around the CBD, but they might not be in favour of around-the-clock crowds. For inner-city residents, sometimes the perks of proximity can become a pain. In Surry Hills, a suburb known for its night time vibe, residents are opposing the opening of a microbrewery in Devonshire Street, fearful of the noise diners and the brewery will produce. We’re all in favour of Sydney’s evolving nightlife and encouraging people to make the most of it. The Lord Mayor’s vision of a vibrant, buzzing city is a worthy one, but it’s going to take much more than later trading hours to make it happen.