This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
DARLING Harbour’s transformation is in train after the NSW government approved a $764.5 million redevelopment of the Harbourside building, in addition to a new 2050 vision being drafted by the government.
The State Significant Development (SSD) of Harbourside is a “key project moving Darling Harbour from a 1980s icon into a modern and thriving destination for the next generation of visitors”, the government said yesterday. It involves the demolition of the original Harbourside building to make way for a new mixed-use 50-storey residential and commercial building, with up to 265 new homes.
As part of the project, ASX-listed developer Mirvac has agreed to a $5.2 million contribution to generate affordable housing, including in the surrounding Pyrmont area.
Mirvac broke ground at the Harbourside precinct redevelopment during the year. The broader Harbourside project will deliver 10,000 sqm of public open space, including a new waterfront with restaurants, bars, national and international retailers, a new 3,500 sqm park and connections from Pyrmont to the waterfront, including $50 million in public domain funding and $7 million in public art and activation.
Major renewal is also underway nearby with the restoration of the Pyrmont Bridge, expansion of the Chinese Garden, a new stage in Tumbalong Park, the opening of the new W Hotel, and the IMAX redevelopment.
The Department of Planning and Environment is currently assessing a separate SSD for the design of Harbourside’s public domain, including upgrades to the waterfront promenade with seating, greenery, heritage interpretation and public art.
The NSW government yesterday also announced it is developing a Darling Harbour 2050 Vision to provide a “big picture” for the community, allowing the precinct to “evolve over time while keeping its unique, world-famous character’.
The vision is being developed in partnership with the community with over 1,100 participants engaging in an online survey, pop-up stalls and focus groups. Emerging themes from these sessions highlight opportunities to connect to the water, a need for more trees as well as greener and open space, the government said. Aboriginal community engagement is currently underway.
The vision will deliver a planning framework to shape it into a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable waterfront precinct. A draft is expected to be exhibited for feedback mid-next year.
