Before the pandemic, tourism contributed hundreds of millions of dollars to Liverpool’s local economy and provided thousands of jobs.
Lockdowns and restrictions however have a detrimental impact.
In just one 12 month period, tourism’s contribution to the local economy declined by around $362 million.
It also resulted in the loss of 2,465 jobs.
But now there’s light at the end of the tunnel.
This week the mayor of Liverpool, Wendy Waller, has welcomed a tourism and events recovery package announced by the NSW Government.
As part of its Covid-19 economic recovery plan, the NSW Government is committing $50 million of the $530 million package for a CBDs revitalisation program to support events and activations across Greater Sydney and surrounds.
This component of the package is a major drawcard for Liverpool City Council and aligns with its long-standing vision of an activated Liverpool city centre.
“At the heart of council’s vision for the Liverpool city centre is the creation of a vibrant and sustained 18-hour economy where residents across Liverpool and Greater Sydney are emboldened to dine out, socialise or simply make greater use of currently under activated spaces,’’ explains Cr Waller.
“With the new Western Sydney International Airport and Aerotropolis on our doorstep and a young, growing, and cosmopolitan population expected to rise as much as 60 per cent by 2041, Liverpool is poised to become Sydney’s third CBD,’’ she says.
“Having an activated city centre is essential to achieving this milestone.
“Council is inspired by the outdoor precincts we see in surrounding local government areas like Paramatta.
“Like Paramatta, the Liverpool city centre has many laneways and arcades. However, the potential of these spaces for increased outdoor dining, night-time activation and pedestrian connectivity remains untapped.
“We believe now is the right time for Liverpool to come alive and assert itself as a true tourist destination in Greater Sydney with offerings reflective of its vibrant and diverse identity.”
