Parramatta streets are set to transform into event hubs with the launch of the new program Ready, Set, Activate program.
Ready, Set, Activate is designed to make the process from application to activation simpler for street-based events through improved support and processes that empower individuals and organisations to host successful events.
The program will harness industry research and community insights to reduce barriers for event organisers, explore street improvements to make them more event-friendly and review Council policies to reduce costs.
City of Parramatta chief executive officer Gail Connolly PSM said Council is committed to improving social wellbeing and inclusion across the City.
"Parramatta loves a good party, and this program will enable Council to foster vibrant and inclusive events that bring our communities together," Ms Connolly said.
"Building a thriving night-time economy is a key to our vision for becoming a global city and the Parramatta CBD was the second in NSW to have the international Purple Flag accreditation which recognises the City for already having a safe and vibrant nightlife."
Streets in Harris Park, Epping, Wentworth Point, Granville and Parramatta have been earmarked to be the first to benefit first from the new Ready, Set, Activate program our local area.
"This program adds to our already billion-dollar night-time economy and will bring some of what our CBD is already experiencing into our growing and diverse suburbs," Ms Connolly said.
City of Parramatta's Ready, Set, Activate is proudly funded by the NSW Government's Vibrant Streets Package - Permit/Plug/Play Pilot program led by Transport for NSW.
NSW Minister for Roads John Graham said he's proud the government is helping to fund more events in suburban streets.
"When I first came to office and was briefed on the cost of opening a street for an event, I was told it could cost up to $122,000 on each occasion. I couldn't believe it. We are now fixing this".
"We want to make these events cheaper and easier for councils to run, so they can host them more often.
"These events bring communities together, having fun and supporting local businesses without blowing the family budget"
