Plans to transform the southern end of Parramatta’s CBD into a new Chinatown and civic precinct will go on public exhibition next month, as council looks to expand the city’s nightlife and public spaces.
The proposal forms the first stage of the CBD South Parramatta Master Plan and includes a mix of public realm upgrades, laneways, retail, and cultural spaces across key locations such as Fitzwilliam Street, Wentworth Street, Church Street and a network of Chinatown laneways and arcades.
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor, Martin Zaiter, said the plan aims to unlock the potential of the southern CBD and build on the success of recent revitalisation efforts north of the rail line.
Zaiter said the Master Plan would help position Parramatta as a leading global city by enhancing its night-time economy and public domain.
“Parramatta is a city second to none,” he said. “This Master Plan allows us to truly become a global city by expanding our nightlife and public spaces to build on the success of Parramatta Square.
“Since it opened in 2022, Parramatta Square has continued to bring vibrancy and nightlife to our CBD, with more than eight million visitors to the public domain in the past year alone.
“This is about unlocking the full potential of the southern precinct, so it becomes a lively destination for food, culture and connection.”
Zaiter said the Master Plan also creates opportunities to redevelop council-owned land and deliver new community spaces in the CBD.
“All global cities have a Chinatown precinct that comes alive with eateries, retail and cultural offerings,” he said.
“We want to unlock Council-owned sites and create a vibrant destination, full of art, light and colour that people can enjoy as Parramatta continues to grow.”
The proposed precinct is bounded by Church Street, Fitzwilliam Street and Parkes Street, south of the rail line.
Community submissions will open from 11 May, with council encouraging residents, businesses and stakeholders to provide feedback on the plans.
