MEDIA RELEASE 29 MAY 2023
Parramatta’s CBD is set to become an even more popular destination after dark, after earning international recognition for its vibrant, diverse and safe nightlife.
It joins an elite list of cities globally, including Stockholm in Sweden, Dublin in Ireland and Sydney’s York, Clarence and Kent Street precinct, to receive the coveted Purple Flag accreditation for excellence in key measures for a night-time economy.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Sameer Pandey said Parramatta’s CBD was the first location in Western Sydney to earn the Purple Flag and only the second in Australia.
“We want Parramatta to be a ‘go to’ destination after dark where people can enjoy fabulous food, a drink with friends and a taste of our vibrant nightlife – all in a safe environment and close to transport,” Cr Pandey said.
“Purple Flag recognition has been shown to boost visitation and raise the profile of night-life precincts internationally and is a massive win for local businesses.”
City of Parramatta applied for Purple Flag accreditation earlier this year, when Investment NSW began piloting the program.
Cr Pandey said it’s a step in the right direction for Parramatta’s CBD’s expanding night-time economy.
“Parramatta really is the heart of global Sydney – and this Purple Flag helps put us on the radar of visitors nationally and internationally,” Cr Pandey said.
“We want our 24-hour economy to thrive, and this is another step forward in transforming the local area into a world-class CBD.”
The accredited area covers more than 80 food and beverage venues along and around Church Street, plus CommBank Stadium, Riverside Theatres, retail and dining at Westfield Parramatta, a cinema, public spaces, hotels, gyms and fitness studios – with safe access to public transport (train, light rail, buses), a taxi rank and 24-hour car parks.
