Green signal for Central Barangaroo transformation proposal

The NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully has approved the modification request for Central Barangaroo, paving the way for the transformation of a once neglected and inaccessible part of the city into a dynamic cultural, residential, business and retail hub.

This development is the final piece of Barangaroo to proceed, and will turn Central Barangaroo into the cultural and civic heart of the Barangaroo precinct, linking the natural beauty of Barangaroo Reserve with the commercial district of Barangaroo South.

Comprising a mix of residential and retail including restaurants and bars, a hotel and community facilities, the proposed development will allow for the area to become a destination in its own right on the Sydney Harbour foreshore due to its proximity to the new Barangaroo Metro.

“The renewal of the strategically important Barangaroo site has always been about providing greater access to Sydney’s harbour foreshore. It will create jobs and homes, enhance our cultural facilities, civic spaces and parkland, and create diverse experiences and destinations – all easily accessible by public transport,” Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said.

“This approval considers Barangaroo’s prominent position and is respectful of the contribution of the area to Sydney’s development and future.”

The planning determination means that the Central Barangaroo proposal can proceed subject to conditions. 

The approval requires high standards of quality and sustainability, in line with the rest of Barangaroo, with a focus on water efficiency, carbon neutrality, and zero waste. At least 50% of public open space will be maintained, and the modification will also deliver an extra 800 square metres of community floor space and two new public plazas. It also establishes view corridors along the northern and southern plazas.

A new 1.8-hectare waterfront public park on the nearby Central Barangaroo foreshore for recreation, events and entertainment is being designed as a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike. Currently known as Harbour Park, this public space will be delivered separately by the NSW Government.

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) has carefully assessed the historic view impacts of the proposal, particularly between Observatory Hill and Sydney Harbour. Conditions on the project include incorporating the Heritage Impact Statement into the consent. The height of the northern part of the block facing Nawi Cove will be reduced from 8 storeys to 5 storeys, providing continued connection to the water view from Observatory Hill.

The planning approval enables the proponent to undertake detailed design work, which will include community consultation.

“Under the former Government this project was stuck in planning purgatory for over a decade, and this site had been a blight on the harbour for many years before that,” Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper says.

“This is a fantastic outcome. Now that planning approval has been granted, we can get on with the job of delivering the final piece of the Barangaroo puzzle.

“With the Barangaroo Metro station now open, the Pier Pavilion and the Cutaway nearing completion, Barangaroo Reserve, Marrinawi and Nawi Cove open, it will be fantastic to see the full vision for Barangaroo finally realised for locals and visitors to enjoy.”

Images: Supplied