I was reading the comments on the Star's website, and some people make some interesting points in favour of this. Basically they point out that the ropes sometimes force pedestrians onto the streets, and that street-front stores pay a licence to sell their goods on the street (which are also temporary, displays brought in after opening hours), patios pay for permits, why not bars and clubs for their queues that are well-demarcated and enforced by the owners? It is argued that these lines are a selling tool, and spillover from business that happens on the interior.
It would have to be enforced for all establishments (there are a few each on Church St, Yonge St, Danforth, Bloor in Annex), even though it is clear that Vaughan is targeting clubland specifically.
Just a thought that should be brought into the debate.