‘Pride Square’ for Newtown

Wednesday, 23 March 2022

Council will seek to rename the public square outside Newtown Town Hall ‘Pride Square’ in time for Sydney WorldPride in early 2023.

Bedford Square, as it is currently know, is home to the iconic ArtSeat and one of Council’s rainbow Pride Seats.

Councillor Mat Howard, who put forward the amendment for the renaming, said Newtown was home to a large and vibrant LGBTQ community.

“This strong and vocal community has played an important role in shaping the character of our area. They are the beating heart and soul of the struggle for equality and civil rights in Australia,” he said.

“Bedford Square is a perfect location. It’s in a well-known, busy, central location opposite Newtown Station and right in the middle of businesses that are LGBTIQ and/or LGBTIQ friendly,” he said.

As well as submitting a formal request to the Geographic Names Board to rename the square, Council also unanimously resolved to commence immediate planning work with its LGBTQ Working Group to deliver a rainbow pathway in Newtown in time for WorldPride 2023.

As well, Council will establish a WorldPride Committee, tasked with including Inner West Council venues and programs in Sydney WorldPride.

Sydney WorldPride will be held 17 February - 5 March 2023.

For media enquiries, contact Elizabeth Heath, Media and Communications Coordinator, 9392 5334 or Elizabeth.Heath@innerwest.nsw.gov.au