Gordon Knight
Reviews
"Katoomba is changing!"
I have lived on and off in Katoomba for many years and i can tell you the place is changing a lot and not for the better. A lot of the homeless, mentally ill, and drug addicted are being shipped to the mountains as Sydney is swamped with them. If you like somewhere where you can't even walk down your own street for the mentally ill hearling insults and abuse at you then you will love Katoomba. Any problems in Sydney just seem to be sent up to Katoomba. Stay clear of Lurline Street at the top end near the station as its all housing commission with drug addicted and domestic violence daily. For kids especially its frightening. Further, there are no decent schools in the area. I think if you stayed around Springwood you would be fine but dont head up to Katoomba unless the drug addicted are your scene.
Absolutely agree with you Gordon, Katoomba is old and tired and run down. The building facades in the main street havent been painted or repaired for decades, and yes, the homeless and mentally ill have been moved to this area and wander the streets. The community here would protest against a kid with a lemonade stand, just for something to do, thats how sad this place is. I could go on but I speak from 17 years living here and Im excited to say were getting the hell out of here!
It's so weird, it's like people are talking about two different places. I've never felt unsafe in Katoomba. My mother-in-law lives at the top end of Lurline, has fantastic neighbours and our kids regularly walk there alone. I appreciate people have different experiences, but I just wanted to give my view.
Thats hilarious Gordon and Mathew. Katoomba is a friendly and welcoming town. Its heyday was in the 20s and some of the buildings could do with a paint if only the investment owners would come to the party. Thriving arts and music community with beautiful walks and scenery. Whats not to like.
Grahamh14, you have that tired, sad run down place, the people there are sad, tired and run down also I guess it's the dismal weather.
Mathew14. I think its safe to say that you are probably not the only person to be glad that you have left. Enjoy your utopia.
Cant believe this comment . Moved up here fully a couple of years ago . Never been hassled on the street . Pre and no doubt after lockdown : wonderful range of cafes , restaurants , big supermarkets but away from Main Street . Never experienced crime . Lovely, friendly people . The drive to the supermarket I use the scenic route and the views are stunning . Real estate prices through the roof which I know makes it hard to buy . Doctors , dentists, great little hospital . My street is like a village and has that wonderful community feeling . Try a jazz night at the Avalon or best Italian food youll get anywhere at Papadinos. Great aquatic centre . And I could go on .
thanks to Sydney people buying up multiple properties for air bnbs there are now more homeless from katoomba to lithgow..
I totally disagree - I've lived here for 10 years and never see any of that stuff. I have two young children and they are safer here than anywhere in Sydney. It's a close, welcoming and friendly community.