Once the trial gets the official green light, Parramatta’s CBD will have extended opening hours for bars, restaurants and shops, more live music and performances, later-night community spaces and creative venues, plus incentives for hospitality businesses and music venues, including reduced liquor licence fees and access to additional trading hours.

The project builds on Parramatta’s Late Night Trading Development Control Plan and the city’s long-term Parramatta 2050 vision, which aims to strengthen the CBD as a destination for entertainment, hospitality and cultural activities.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Martin Zaiter said the funding supports Parramatta’s continued transformation into a leading destination for culture, entertainment and nightlife in Western Sydney.

“This is a big win for Parramatta and a major step towards becoming a truly vibrant, 24-hour CBD for everyone to enjoy,” Cr Zaiter said. “We’re focused on creating a City that people can enjoy day and night, supporting jobs, culture and a safe, exciting night-time economy.”

 The Special Entertainment Precincts are part of a plan by the NSW Government to reinvigorate Sydney’s night life after the O’Farrell Liberal Government dealt the night time economy in the inner city, Kings Cross and Darlinghurst areas a near fatal blow with its bungled, draconian ‘lockout laws’. Sydney’s Enmore Road, Balmain’s Darling Street and locations in Leichardt, Dulwich Hill, Rozelle and Marrickville are among the other planned locations.