Luna Park worth $683m to economy over five years
NEW data has revealed the massive worth of Luna Park to Sydney’s economy as the iconic harbourside attraction faces as uncertain future.
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NEW data has revealed the massive worth of Luna Park to Sydney’s economy as the iconic harbourside attraction faces as uncertain future.
Independent research estimates Luna Park will contribute $120.6 million to the Harbour City’s economy this year and $683.4 million over the next five years.
Sydney Business Chamber executive director Patricia Forsythe said the embattled park was more than just a place for fun rides and fairy floss.
“It also employs about 1000 people a year in a wide range of positions including in the amusement park, catering staff functions and events roles,” Ms Forsythe said.
“It actually plays a big role around business events. From a business point of view, we’d be lost without the sort of space it has to host the large corporate events for thousands of delegates.”
The latest data on the park’s economic impact follows a recent Land and Environment Court ruling which threatens the long-term viability of the attraction.
Luna Park, a harbourside institution since 1935 which attracts a million thrillseekers each year, will now have to seek lengthy planning approvals for every new and moved ride and attraction as local residents gain a greater say in the process.
Ms Forsythe this week reinforced the concerns of the park’s operators where it could get caught up in red tape.
“Luna Park plays a really important role in the overall Sydney visitor economy,” he said. “It has been there, dare I say it, longer than almost any local resident. Too many people take it for granted.
“It already conforms to standards that have been developed with the neighbourhood in mind (since it reopened in 2004). This was a way to respond to residents’ concerns.
“The park is too important, and the NSW government has got to resolve this issue as soon as possible.”
Meanwhile, a #SaveLunaPark petition is nearing its goal of 10,000 signatures, with 7700 visitors to the Milsons Point attraction putting their name to the cause.
Under NSW Parliament rules, petitions of more than 10,000 signatures will be scheduled for discussion in the House.