The Sydney Business Chamber says the planned expansion of the Art Gallery of NSW will further elevate Sydney as an arts and visitor hotspot.

For far too long Sydney has missed out on major exhibitions to Brisbane and Melbourne because of a lack of exhibition space at the NSW Art Gallery,” said Patricia Forsythe, Executive Director of the Sydney Business Chamber.“

The realisation of the Sydney Modern vision with the allocation of $244 million to be included in next week’s NSW Budget will assist not only the gallery to achieve its potential to be Australia’s pre-eminent art museum but the precinct will play a vital role in the Sydney visitor economy.

“An expanded gallery will give visitors a reason to linger around longer with the NSW Art Gallery forming a key part of the strongest visitor precinct in Australia, including the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanic Garden, The Rocks, Circular Quay, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the retail heart of Sydney.

“We will soon be able to attract some of the most prestigious exhibitions and displays from across the world as well as local and traditional art and performances,” Mrs Forsythe said.

The expanded gallery will play a vital role in Sydney’s visitor economy, drawing in art-lovers, school students and international and local tourists.

“It will be something for everyone and will establish itself as a gem in the arts and creative world.

“Not only will Sydney Modern become a visitor hotspot, once completed, the project will create hundreds of jobs.

“This is a win for NSW and Sydney,” she said.