City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer has welcomed the NSW Government’s strategy to transform Sydney into a 24-hour city and called for continued collaboration to make their vision a reality.  

“I am pleased the NSW Government is progressing its bold plan to create a 24-hour economy for Sydney, which aligns with Council’s visionary Parramatta Night City Framework 2020-2024,” Cr Dwyer said.

“We want Parramatta to be a shining example of a 24-hour economy with diverse business offerings, late-night events, and vibrant experiences.

“City of Parramatta’s night time economy is valued at $1.1 billion and we’re excited that Parramatta has rightfully been earmarked as a critical precinct in the NSW Government’s plan.

“Revitalising Sydney’s nightlife will provide a much-needed boost for businesses and the economy in the wake of COVID-19.

“We recognise businesses are doing it tough right now and we are doing everything we can to pave the way for a strong recovery.”

Cr Dwyer said he also welcomes the establishment of a Coordinator General to drive the NSW Government’s 24-Hour Economy Strategy, in collaboration with councils and industry.

“Parramatta will play a key role in Sydney’s transformation and we look forward to continuing to work with the NSW Government to realise its plan for a vibrant and diversified night time economy,” Cr Dwyer said.

Council’s Parramatta Night City Framework 2020-2024 provides a vision for how the City can become more vibrant after 5pm. It explores ways Council can cater to the whole community; attract new and diverse businesses; make the City safer and easier to navigate at night; and help foster creativity, live music and events.

“We are working hard to revamp the City’s night time economy and make Parramatta a thriving late-night destination, through dining, live music, sporting events, family activities and retail offerings,” Cr Dwyer said.

“Our bold framework will cement the City of Parramatta as Sydney’s Central River City by helping to create jobs as well as enabling businesses to trade after hours.”

In August, Council won the Local Government of NSW 2020 Planning Award for its ‘Planning a 24-hour city: Parramatta Night City Framework 2020-2024’ for culture change, innovation and excellence.