Helipad plan to boost tourism recovery in Sydney
Hotelier Dr Jerry Schwartz said plans to build a helipad on the roof of the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour would give the tourism sector a much-needed boost following the coronavirus downturn.
Dr Schwartz has been hoping to build a helipad on the roof of his 38-storey property since it opened in 2017.
“Given the devastation to Sydney’s tourism and business economy as a result of the coronavirus, there is no better time to introduce the concept of a CBD helipad to help revive the city’s economic fortunes,” Dr Schwartz told The Sydney Morning Herald.
“The world’s great cities, such as London, Paris and New York, have CBD helipads, and even Melbourne offers city helicopter transfers to the River Yarra helipad.”
The plan would involve building a new structure on the roof of the hotel, with the addition of a lift and stairs to service the helipad.
“Darling Harbour is designated as a dedicated tourism, convention and business precinct, which makes it’s the ideal location for a permanent helipad,” he said.
“We would envisage that world leaders could arrive at Sydney Airport and be flown direct to the Darling Harbour Helipad to make a keynote address at the International Convention Centre.
“There’s no doubt that this infrastructure would significantly benefit Sydney’s business and convention profile and provide delegates attending the ICC and Sydney CBD the highest security, while also ensuring disruptions to city traffic are minimised.
“With Coronavirus impacting all areas of life, economic stimulus needs to be a key component of the recovery process for Sydney. This forward-thinking proposal will help stimulate the local industry, establish Sydney as one of the world’s great convention cities, and boost business opportunities for all sectors.”
Sheridan Randall, 28th May 2020
