Night Time Economy Strategy

Last modified on 17 November 2023

Willoughby City Council takes a significant step forward in fostering a vibrant and diverse night-time economy with the adoption of its Night Time Economy Strategy. Aligned with the community's long-term vision outlined in Our Future Willoughby 2032, the strategy is a key component of the 10-year Community Strategic Plan (CSP) and focussing on "Building and supporting a night time economy," aiming to enhance the vibrancy of the area, particularly Chatswood CBD.

The NSW Government's 24 Hour Strategy, released in September 2020, also underscores the importance of a vibrant night-time economy. The objective is to create a 24-hour city renowned for its vibrancy, diversity, safety, and accessibility throughout the day and night.

Mayor Tanya Taylor said the significance of the Night Time Economy Strategy is to facilitate a robust night time economy that adds to the vibrancy of the area, attracts businesses and visitors, and enhances the reputation of Chatswood CBD and our local centres as active, vibrant places.

The Night Time Economy Strategy is a comprehensive plan that focuses on four strategic outcomes:

Making the Places: Enhancing the physical spaces to create a vibrant and engaging night-time environment.

Promotion and Events: Planning and organising events to attract people to local centres during the night.

Business and Cultural Development: Supporting and promoting businesses in the night-time economy, with a particular focus on the culture and food and beverage sectors.

Diversification: Encouraging a diverse range of activities and businesses in the night-time economy.

The strategy aims to position Chatswood as the cultural hub of the North Shore, offering a range of activities and events that extend vibrancy into the night.

“This strategy recognises that our local centres and the Chatswood CBD are places where people spend their leisure time, and gives businesses the opportunity for additional economic activity that supports the cultural needs of the community."

The Night Time Economy Strategy signifies Willoughby City Council's commitment to playing a key leadership role in creating a prosperous and vibrant local economy. The implementation of the strategy will be a collaborative effort with the local business community to ensure its success.

The public exhibition of the draft Night Time Economy Strategy, held between April and June 2022, received positive responses from the community and external stakeholders. While no major changes were sought or made, ongoing engagement with the business community will shape the detail of each strategic outcome.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Amanda Kearney, Willoughby City Council

E: Amanda.kearney@willoughby.nsw.gov.au

P: P +61 2 9777 1057 | M: 0418 296 579