The City of Sydney will fund a local-led community plan to breathe life into the Kings Cross night-time economy as the area strives to survive under lockout laws and recover from the economic impact of Covid-19.
The Committee for Sydney will receive $40,000 from the City to create a precinct vision for Kings Cross to make the area safer and more attractive to a diversity of visitors.
While the NSW Government repealed the lockout laws in January, they remain in place in Kings Cross and are due for review within the next 12 months.
Lord Mayor of Sydney Clover Moore said Kings Cross has a rich and colourful history and it is now time to consider a new chapter for the area.
“We want a safe and lively Kings Cross, with a thriving residential community and a diverse economy that includes fabulous bars and restaurants, theatres and shops,” the Lord Mayor said.
“The Committee for Sydney will build on our existing plans for Kings Cross and speak with the community, particularly local residents and businesses, to come up with a collective vision for the area and make recommendations on how to jump-start the night-time economy and bring domestic and international visitors back to the area.
“I really look forward to seeing what they come up with. We hope that this work, along with our own policies and planning, provides a pathway to winding back the lockout laws and creating the Kings Cross our global city deserves.”
The research and community consultation will focus on:
- a new positive vision and narrative for the precinct's future
- an overarching precinct identity and business offerings in the area
- capacity for business and cultural sector growth and job creation in the precinct
- a road map for advocating on key reforms for the area, in particular, the removal of the lockout laws.
A report outlining a precinct vision, recommendations that reflect the community's aspiration for the precinct and a governance framework that enables local leadership to coordinate development of the area will be unveiled in 2021.
“Kings Cross is one of Sydney’s most famous neighbourhoods and has a rich heritage, particularly as an area for culture, live performance and entertainment,” James Hulme, Director of Advocacy for The Committee for Sydney said.
“The Committee for Sydney will develop a positive vision for the precinct, with input from the local community and other stakeholders, about how to make Kings Cross an even better place to live, work and visit.
“As Sydney recovers from the Covid-19 pandemic, we want Kings Cross to be a central part of the city’s revival. This will involve bringing new life to local high streets, improving the public realm and creating a diverse, safe and enjoyable night-time economy.”
The Committee for Sydney, a not-for-profit advocacy group, will partner with Ethos Urban, the Kings Cross Liquor Accord and Potts Point Partnership to deliver this project.
The City is committed to working with local business leaders in Kings Cross, in collaboration with the NSW Government, on a pathway for the precinct to be free from lockouts.
We have completed significant work in Kings Cross including upgrades to the Bayswater Road streetscape, footway paving, street lighting, wayfinding signage, and the installation of CCTV cameras, street furniture and water fountains.
The City supports businesses contributing to Sydney’s night time economy in many ways. These include offering grants to businesses, seeking advice from nightlife and creative sector experts, promoting Sydney’s nightlife and local industry, and planning reform.
In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Council recently endorsed a $47.5 million funding package for local businesses, cultural and creative industries and the community support sector. This significant commitment brings the City’s total relief funding to $72.5 million so far.
For media enquiries or images, contact Senior Media Advisors Roxanne Macara (0438 554 640) or Angela Salt (0455 958 503) or email mediateam@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore, contact Julia Lenton.
Phone 0410 748 039 or email jlenton@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au