The Sydney Business Chamber says Christmas cheer has reached George Street following the completion of light rail construction on key sections in the heart of the CBD.

“Opening up the western end of the CBD shopping precinct into a pedestrian boulevard in the final weeks prior to Christmas is good news not only for retailers but for enthusiastic shoppers as well,” said Patricia Forsythe, Executive Director of the Sydney Business Chamber.

“The replacement of the hoardings and construction activity with Christmas lights and decorations between King and Park streets complements the significant investment the City of Sydney and local retailers have made in ensuring Sydney CBD is a must-visit destination in the weeks prior to Christmas.

“The paving, new street poles and planter boxes give a peek into what George Street will look like once the light rail project is complete and show why over $3 billion of private sector development is planned or underway along George Street.

“When finished, George Street will be a retail destination alongside Pitt and Castlereagh streets and will lift Sydney’s reputation as a shopping destination. 

“Sydney will soon have its version of prominent international shopping strips, like Bond Street in London or Ginza in Tokyo with the strong likelihood of new luxury brands seeking out the precinct,” Mrs Forsythe said.
  
“This opening and Christmas activation comes as a Christmas gift for businesses who have been impacted by the light rail construction work. 

“The NSW Government has fulfilled the commitment it made to business that these zones would be open from December 3.

“Consultation with businesses and stakeholders on the progress of the CBD and South East Light Rail project has been thorough with regular briefings for representatives of key business groups,” she said.