New planning controls to brighten Parramatta's night-time economy

Businesses in Parramatta’s CBD will be able to apply to operate around the clock as the City continues its push to become a true global city with a thriving night time economy.

Under new Late Night Trading development controls approved by Council last week, businesses in the City’s centre wanting to extend their operating hours or operate 24 hours a day will be provided greater clarity, minimising the time taken to complete the approval process.

These controls deliver better hours and longer trial periods. This provides greater certainty for investors and business owners across the CBD, setting the standard for Greater Sydney.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Pierre Esber said the new rules were about promoting the Parramatta CBD as a vibrant destination after dark, with a range of transport options.

“We are well on the way to becoming a global city that is open 24/7,” Cr Esber said.

“We were the first in Western Sydney to earn international Purple Flag accreditation for our vibrant, diverse and safe nightlife.

"We want Parramatta to be a place where, at any time of day and night, you can get a great meal, go dancing, enjoy arts and culture, grab a coffee and shop.”

Cr Esber said the extension of business hours is not just beneficial for Parramatta, but for the local economy as well.

“This is a game changer for local businesses, injecting millions of dollars into our economy, particularly once the Parramatta Light Rail opens,” Cr Esber said.

“It’s all part of our vision to see Parramatta on the same global stage as New York, Paris and London.”

Parramatta Liquor Accord President Dan O’Hara said he was excited about the decision.

“We thank the Parramatta Lord Mayor, councillors and Parramatta Council staff for their collaboration with licenced premises, as well as operators outside of the liquor industry, to ensure we achieve our goal of a vibrant and safe Parramatta nightlife,” Mr O’Hara said.

“The approved DCP will encourage premises to conduct more live music and entertainment at their venues, provide certainty to existing venues to invest and improve their venues, whilst providing the framework to attract new world-class operators to the Parramatta CBD precinct.

“This is a win for the City of Parramatta and is a clear sign to existing and potential operators within the Parramatta CBD that Parramatta is open for business.”

Council will also begin investigations into a Special Entertainment Precinct around Parramatta Square and Church Street’s ‘Eat Street’ precinct.

The new rules have been shaped by consultation with the community, NSW Government agencies, NSW Police and the Parramatta Liquor Accord.