Decision details

Moved by Councillor Worling, seconded by the Chair (the Deputy Lord Mayor) -

It is resolved that:

(A)       Council note:

(i)         over 7 regular markets operate within the City of Sydney, providing essential income for small businesses and supporting local producers;

(ii)        markets foster community engagement, cultural expression and contribute to the City’s vibrancy;

(iii)       the City has supported market activity for more than 20 years, promoting neighbourhood activation and enhancing the visibility of local industries; and

(iv)       the City maintains high standards for health, safety and cleanliness at market sites, working collaboratively with organisers to support a thriving market economy;

(B)       Council further note:

(i)         the City of Sydney has approved operations for new markets at Taylor Square, commencing on 31 October 2025, operated by Organic Food Markets;

(ii)        Taylor Square will host a night market on Fridays from 5pm to 10pm and a farmers’ market on Saturdays from 8am to 2pm;

(iii)       the site at Taylor Square is equipped with electricity and potable water for market operations. However, vendors have requested additional access to electricity and potable water to meet their safety and hygiene requirements;

(iv)       without access to clean energy sources vendors may be forced to rely on unsustainable, portable energy sources such as gas or diesel generators; and

(v)        the success of these markets will be a contributing factor to the revitalisation of Taylor Square and is dependent on coordinated support from the City, community, and local businesses; and

(C)       the Chief Executive Officer be requested to:

(i)         investigate and provide advice on the infrastructure and costs to increase access to potable water and electricity for food and beverage vendors at Taylor Square and report back via the CEO Update;

(ii)        if required, investigate the budget implications for Council's consideration as part of the preparation of the 2026/27 Budget and Operational Plan; and

(iii)       assess any future market sites in our area to confirm adequate sustainable energy and potable water to better support markets.

Carried unanimously.

X113756