The NSW government’s plans to transform Sydney into a bustling night-time economy are moving along at breakneck speed with Bondi Junction the latest spot proposed to get a late-night glow-up. It wouldn’t be a stretch to say the business district currently resembles an abandoned ghost town after hours but that could soon change thanks to a proposed 3am trading bid on the table. Waverley Council voted in favour of moving ahead with plans to extend trading hours in Oxford Street Mall, which is located in the heart of the suburb with convenient proximity to the train station. The trading hours would be implemented seven days a week, until 3am.
Waverley mayor Paula Masselos said the eastern suburbs are a “world-famous tourism destination and our CBD should reflect that.”
“It should not be a ghost town once people leave the office for the day,” she added.
Alongside the world-famous Bondi Beach, this particular part of town also has a number of retail outlets including clothing stores, restaurants and weekly pop-up markets. The council is looking at destinations like Melbourne, London and Paris as it works towards bringing the proposal to fruition.
Although the bid would likely turn Bondi Junction into a prime hub for those looking to get out and about after-hours and infuse fresh life into the streets, the council says the idea could also be met with some community resistance citing traffic, safety concerns, residents’ peace and anti-social behaviour as potential barriers.
The council is currently seeking input from local businesses, residents and visitors before deciding on next steps. The extended trading hours would only apply to premises in and around the mall. Get more information here.