Harris Park business groups dispute new shuttle bus service

Disputes have emerged among multiple business organizations representing the Harris Park dining precinct in western Sydney regarding a new shuttle bus service. The group Little India NSW received a $45,000 state government grant to operate a shuttle between Parramatta and the restaurant strip, a project launched in August by Labor MP Donna Davis.

Little India NSW is seeking support from the City of Parramatta council to modify local parking rules so the shuttle can access venues on the main dining strip. However, the initiative is complicated by the presence of four different organizations claiming to represent the area, each with conflicting interests.

The conflict stems from a split within the original Little India Harris Park Business Association. Following allegations regarding the use of government grants, members formed Little India NSW. Meanwhile, the association's founder, Sanjay Deshwal, established a rival group called the Little India Harris Park Business Precinct.

Little India NSW president Nitin Setia noted that while the group originally sought $90,000 for an electric bus, the NSW government provided $45,000. Parramatta councillors have approved a motion to investigate options for free shuttle services and potential loading zone adjustments in the area.