The plans suggest Campbell Street in Haymarket,near the Capitol Theatre,get expanded outdoor dining areas and decorative lighting to highlight its status as the city’s Thai Town.Credit:City of Sydney
City of Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the changes would recognise the shifting character of Haymarket – which increasingly features a mix of Chinese,Thai and Korean retailers – and of the southern end of the CBD beyond Chinatown’s established borders of Dixon and Sussex streets.
Moore said it was time for a new,overarching plan for Haymarket,which hasbattled to rebound from years of light rail construction,pandemic restrictions and competition from nearby Darling Square.
“By collaborating closely with residents and businesses in the area we will bring together this unique community to create a world-class destination,economic and cultural precinct,” Moore said.
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The council’s draft “revitalisation” strategy was informed by feedback from 1150 residents,business owners and community members last year. It covers an area stretching from Liverpool Street in the north to Central Station,and takes in Chinatown,Haymarket,Darling Square and Belmore Park.
Under the proposal,which councillors are yet to endorse,businesses along Dixon Street would have access to grants and smoother development application processes to upgrade buildings,install neon signs and display food preparation in shopfront windows as a “form of theatre and street interest”.
The plans include upgrades to the city’s burgeoning Thai Town on Campbell Street,which has a high concentration of Thai restaurants and grocery stores,and Belmore Park opposite Central Station.