Sydney’s notorious lockout laws could be scrapped in the CBD by the end of the year, 9News reports.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro is said to be behind a push to reverse the Coalition government reforms in the city, but not in Kings Cross.

The New Daily confirmed the matter has been discussed in cabinet.

Patrons are barred from entering a venue after 1.30am in the city, Pyrmont, Kings Cross and Darlinghurst under the rule.

Last drinks are served at 3am in affected areas.

9News reported at least eight cabinet ministers support softening the laws, introduced in 2014 by former Liberal premier Barry O’Farrell.

Live music venues were granted a 30-minute extension from January last year.

Bottle shops across the state were also made to close at 10pm, but are now allowed to trade until 11pm.

Mr O’Farrell introduced the lockout laws after two alcohol-fuelled deaths in Kings Cross.

Thomas Kelly and Daniel Christie, both 18, were killed in separate one-punch attacks in 2012 and 2013, respectively.

The Last Drinks group, made of police and emergency service workers, said reversing the laws would be “complete madness”.

“Any politician who weakens these restrictions will have blood on their hands. It’s that simple,” campaign spokesperson Dr Tony Sara said.

“These modest alcohol restrictions have spared thousands of young people from serious and fatal injuries.”

Keep Sydney Open, which has lobbied against the laws, celebrated the reports on Thursday.

“Finally the government is acknowledging the negative impact on businesses and the reputation of our city,” the group said.

City of Sydney Councillor Christine Forster said she was pleased Mr Barilaro was reportedly onboard to reverse the laws.

In a letter to Premier Gladys Berejiklian, Cr Forster, the sister of former prime minister Tony Abbott, said the lockouts allowed Sydney to grow up.

“The laws have also, however, taken an immense toll on the city’s late-night economy, already resulting in the closure of many businesses and threatening the future of scores more.”

Lord Mayor Clover Moore also supports reversing the lockouts.

The restrictions have overseen a decline in patronage in parts of the city. Numerous venues along the iconic LGBTQI strip Oxford Street have shut their doors.

Newtown – in Sydney’s inner west, outside of the lockouts – has seen a spike in patronage.

A spokesperson for Mr Barilaro declined to comment.

The New Daily also contacted Ms Berejiklian’s office.