To celebrate Sydney’s diverse diaspora, Chinatown and the emerging Thai Town are set for a major transformation, as part of a $44-million plan to turn the Haymarket precinct into a buzzing dining and entertainment destination.
The plan comes as part of ongoing efforts to breathe new life into the historic precinct, with vibrant neon lights, enticing outdoor dining spaces, and culturally enriched shopfronts that showcase traditional foods.
The plan’s focal point is the creation of a “precinct of lights,” revamping Dixon Street – the heart of Chinatown – and enhancing the southern end of the CBD beyond traditional borders.
The changes are meant to reflect the evolving character of Haymarket, an area that has increasingly become a hub for Chinese, Thai, and Korean retailers.
The draft ‘revitalisation strategy’ for the project is based on inputs from 1,150 residents, business owners, and community members, covering an area that extends from Liverpool Street to Central Station, encompassing Chinatown, Haymarket, Darling Square, and Belmore Park.
The proposal includes offering businesses along Dizon Street access to grants and streamlined development application process. The plan, yet to be endorsed, aims to enable businesses to upgrade their buildings, install eye-catching neon signs, and present food preparation in shopfront windows.
The revitalisation strategy also envisions enhancements to the burgeoning Thai Town on Campbell Street, including shared zones with decorative lights and outdoor dining areas. Belmore Park, located opposite Central Station, is also slated for improvements.
Council is also actively considering heritage listings for buildings significant to the Chinese community. Additionally, the plan seeks to bolster events and festivals celebrating Asian culture, building on the success of the Neon Playground street festival and Lunar New Year celebrations.
Vincent Lim, Haymarket Chamber of Commerce President, lauds the plan as a blueprint for cultural revitalization. City architect and design director Bridget Smyth, meanwhile, noted that consultations highlighted the desire by retailers and communities for neon lights as a cultural expression that will transform Chinatown into a distinct precinct.
Graham Jahn, City Planning Director, credited Haymarket’s distinctiveness to its diverse residents, including Thai, Korean, Indonesian, and Malaysian backgrounds, setting it apart from other global Chinatowns.
Published 25-August-2023
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