West Village will retain some heritage features, but residents say the development will ruin West End. West Village has been met with community protests since it came to light. Project director Andrew Thompson said the development would have long-term economic benefits for West End. "West Village is quite unique when you compare it with many other local projects as it will create long-lasting employment and economic activity via the dedicated spaces for retail, office and commercial uses," he said. Cr Sri said while it could be too late to prevent the Absoe site, although he had not given up hope on that front, he hoped pressure could be brought to bear to bring in systemic reform.

"Residents are really frustrated because they feel like they've played by the rules and they've exhausted every option," he said. "…What we've seen from recent actions down in Sydney and Melbourne, just because within the planning law system it might feel like residents don't have many options, it doesn't necessarily mean they can't put political pressure on the system to change." The Motor Room music venue, at least, will find a new home in West End at the Boundary Hotel. Boundary Hotel and Motor Room owner Adam Hill said the venue would be relocated to the hotel's rooftop beer garden. "It is sad, but the closing of the Motor Room was always imminent," he said.

"Since January we have been hosting similar styles of live music at the hotel's new Sunday chill sessions, so this move feels natural and necessary for the upkeep of West End's cultural vibrancy." The markets will move across the road to the Rumpus Room, where between 30 and 35 stalls would be set up. Comment has been sought from market coordinator Nick Goding. Meanwhile, The Gabba's past councillor has taken aim at her Greens successor over an email. Former Labor councillor Helen Abrahams, who retired at the last election, took exception to an email Cr Sri sent to Gabba constituents last Friday.

In the email, Cr Sri paid tribute to Ms Abrahams' tenure as The Gabba's local councillor. "I'd like to start by thanking and acknowledging my predecessor, Helen Abrahams, who worked tirelessly for our community for many years," Cr Sri wrote in the email. "I'm conscious that I have big shoes to fill, and I'll continue to draw on Helen's advice and guidance as often as I can. "I know Helen will remain an active and supportive member of our community." Ms Abrahams was not impressed and took to Facebook to vent her frustration.

"Cr Sri … has access to my email list as it is on a BCC database," she said. "However, he has misrepresented my position suggesting I am giving him advice and guidance. "Not true. I have told him to find his own pathway. Very disappointed." When asked about Ms Abrahams' comments, Cr Sri said he was surprised it was considered a story. "I'm sorry if I offended anyone," he said.

"That wasn't my intention." Cr Sri said he did ask Ms Abrahams questions "from time to time" "She usually gives me straightforward answers," he said. For independent news coverage, be sure to follow our Facebook feed.