Help shape the future of Oxford Street
A review of planning rules for Oxford Street and surrounds in Darlinghurst to secure the precinct’s creative and cultural future.
Project Status: Closed
We heard that people value the strong connection between Oxford Street and LGBTIQ+ communities. View the engagement report and keep up to date on our strategic review of Oxford Street.
Public consultation period to
City Engagement
What we’re doing
We’re investigating planning changes to breathe new life into Oxford Street and to secure the area’s creative and cultural future.
Planning rules can help support more cultural, creative, entertainment and late-night activities.
Oxford Street is loved for its rich and varied cultural history. It is a sacred walking track of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation. For many years, it has been an iconic destination for nightlife and shopping. It is home to the annual Mardi Gras Festival and parade, and in 2023, Sydney WorldPride. With major institutions including the National Arts School and the UNSW School of Art and Design, as well as clusters of creative businesses, we have identified Oxford Street as the focal point for a wider creative and cultural precinct in our local strategic planning statement City Plan 2036.
Planning rules about uses, height and the form of buildings can help support more cultural, creative, entertainment and late-night activities. These can include live entertainment and art, craft, design, architecture, media, film, technology and meet-the-maker businesses.
We want to know what you think Oxford Street and surrounds should look and feel like in the future. We invite you to explore Oxford Street, reflect on the history of the area, observe its current nature, and give us your valuable input to help shape the future of Oxford Street.
How you can give feedback
Feedback closed on Tuesday 2 November.
Through our online survey, walking tour, love letters, community workshops and other feedback, we heard from more than 1800 people.
We've considered the feedback and technical studies and propose new planning rules for the precinct. These proposed planning rules will encourage new and retain existing cultural and creative spaces, incentivise businesses and other activities, protect heritage, activate the street and support investment.
In May 2021, Council and the Central Sydney Planning Committee will consider the planning proposal.
If Council and the Committee approve the proposal it will be placed on exhibition for public comment.
You can view the meeting agendas and reports:
- Transport, Heritage and Planning Committee - Monday 10 May
- Central Sydney Planning Committee - Thursday 13 May
- Council - Monday 17 May
Live streaming at all meetings
All meetings, including any speakers, are recorded and broadcast live on our website. Access the live stream.
Speaking at committee meetings
You can speak at committee meetings by calling the secretariat on 02 9265 9702 or emailing [email protected]. View the guidelines for speakers.
We'll continue to keep you updated about this project.
