The NSW Government has taken another step to clear the path for The Star Entertainment Group to resubmit its proposed redevelopment, effectively authorising the construction of new towers up to 140 metres in height within the casino precinct.
NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Rob Stokes, today released the government’s final Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy, which details new planning objectives and rezoning allowances including the development of up to two new towers. These include one at the southern end up to 140 metres in height and a 110-metre tower at the northern end, the latter with the added stipulation that it must be a six-star hotel.
Outside of these, any and all other development types at The Star Pyrmont must be no more than 60 metres in height.
The Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy also mandates an improvement in public space landscaping including an increase in the tree canopy, reduced street parking and a relocation of parking spaces for tour bus layovers. Funding for additional public seating, congregation spaces and extra greenery has also been detailed in the plan.
The move comes following a commitment by the NSW Government to rezone and reimagine Pyrmont as the western gateway to the CBD, having also today announced a new Metro station would be developed as part of the Metro West railway, cutting nearly 30 minutes in the journey duration from Sydney’s western suburbs.
Minister Stokes said the government had listened to community and business feedback, adapting the plan to ensure Pyrmont remained a prosperous part of Sydney.
“Our fundamental task was to encourage economic development while enlivening the peninsula, boosting jobs and providing for more quality public open spaces for everyone to enjoy,” he said.
The unveiling of the strategy clears the way for The Star Entertainment Group to revise its redevelopment objectives following the rejection in July 2019 of its proposed 237-metre, 61-storey and AUD$530 million luxury hotel tower project, which was earmarked as the future home of the 220-room Ritz-Carlton Sydney.
The rejected development was to feature 200 residences, 15 restaurant and dining concepts, a rooftop terrace and Sky Lobby, three swimming pools, two fitness centres, a spa and wellness facility, hot desking hub for entrepreneurs and a five-level ‘Neighbourhood Centre’ for events and conferences.
Following the rejection, the NSW Government launched a review into the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment decision, which in turn led to the Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy.
A spokesperson from The Star Entertainment Group told HM it was looking forward to continued engagement with the government with an aim of delivering its vision for the area.
“The gateway to the CBD can now hopefully realise its full potential,” the company said.
“Our proposed developments, subject to planning, could deliver two hotels and create around 2,000 jobs while also establishing new dining precincts to be enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
“It’s a potential investment of $1 billion that showcases our commitment to helping Sydney get back on its feet and build the Pyrmont of the future.”