Markets proposed for Parramatta’s Lennox Bridge

An historic Parramatta bridge has been broadened and business leaders say it’s the ideal opportunity to turn it into a buzzing marketplace.

Joanne Vella

@Parramatta_News

less than 2 min read

July 19, 2022 - 3:05PM

Parramatta Advertiser

NSW

Don't miss out on the headlines from NSW. Followed categories will be added to My News.

The Lennox Bridge’s pedestrian boulevard has been expanded and now Business Western Sydney believes markets could bring life to the historic span.

Business Western Sydney executive director David Borger is calling for ideas of a dynamic community market to be established on the Church St bridge, which has been upgraded as part of the light rail project.

“The Lennon Bridge is a historic gem that has seen its pedestrian boulevard enhanced by the construction of the Parramatta light rail – it is the people’s bridge once again and it’s time that we activate it with personality,’’ he said.

“There is now a large vacant space on top of the Lennox Bridge that is crying out for our community to bring to live with markets and live entertainment.’’

Mr Borger’s vision would include a bustling market selling fresh food and other goods “on one of the most cherished bridges in Sydney”.

An artist’s impression for the Lennox Bridge markets at Parramatta, near the Riverside Theatres. Image: Grace Borger

“Many bridges across the world are more than just a way to cross a river but are places to meet, eat, buy and have fun; the most famous being the Ponte Vecchio in Florence,’’ he said.

“The Lennox Bridge Markets could quickly become one of the great visitor destinations in western Sydney and would be a boon to the neighbouring Eat Street businesses.”

The sandstone bridge crossing the Parramatta River is 183 years old and was named after David Lennox, a UK migrant who was appointed the Superintendent of Bridges and became the first skilled bridge builder in Australia.

Its graceful span is 27m tall and 9m wide.