The NSW Government will allow the A$6 billion Barangaroo project to proceed on schedule, following a review which recommends the State government architect advise on design.
Lend Lease now plans to commence work in coming weeks on the construction of the basement and begin the first commercial tower before the end of the year.
Former prime minister Paul Keating welcomed the findings, saying to The Australian that it vindicates the position he had taken as design chair.
The Sydney Morning Herald noted that the review recommends a series of panels and committees to improve the overall design. The review also recommends that NSW government architect Peter Mould be given a role helping to advocate and advise on design.
The development is being designed with input from international figures Lord Richard Rogers of architectural firm Rogers Stirk Harbour and American landscape architect Peter Walker.
Visiting the site this year, Lord Rogers said the hotel is a wonderful opportunity for a landmark
Lend Lease says that discussions with major tenants and capital partners continue to progress well.
The Barangaroo Review found that the review and consideration of the ‘Concept Plan modification 4’ application was properly undertaken and that Lend Lease followed all required due process including design refinement.
Lend Lease’s Group chief executive officer Steve McCann said the review acknowledges the quality of the project and its importance to Sydney, as well as the integrity of the processes Lend Lease has undertaken for Barangaroo South.
“We are pleased the review is complete and that it has supported Lend Lease as the selected developer, our Concept Plan approval and commitment to design excellence and sustainability,” said McCann.
“We welcome comments made today by the NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell that the project has valid planning consent and it is important to proceed with the development and construction of the commercial towers to confirm investor confidence in the project.
“As the Premier indicated today we are willing to discuss with Government the location of the hotel at Barangaroo taking into account design excellence, our commercial position and timing of the project."
