The NSW government has revealed plans for a new 24-hectare public precinct above Sydney’s biggest and busiest railway station.
According to a masterplan developed with Architectus and Tyrrell Studio, the reimagined square over the rail corridor will feature three new parklands, 15 high-rise towers, 850 new dwellings (15 percent of which will be allocated to affordable housing), new dining and retail destinations, and a social services hub to support rough sleepers.
The 10- to 15-year urban renewal program embraces “design, sustainability and connectivity”, intended to transform underutilised government-owned land into a thriving metropolitan hub.
“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine this iconic part of our CBD and transform it into a world-class precinct of shops, restaurants, office spaces, parkland and additional housing,” NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said.
Plans for Central Green reveal major new green outdoor spaces by Architectus and Tyrrell Studio.
Image: Courtesy of Transport NSW
Benefits of the project are expected to include improved connectivity, a revived transport interchange, and high-quality office spaces as part of Sydney’s Tech Central development. While no figure has been expressly attached to the project as of yet, estimates have forecast in the billions.
New buildings within the precinct will range from four to 34 storeys, and 60,000 square metres of public domain will be created between the three new parks – Central Green, Central Square and Mortuary Station Garden – and various proposed squares and plazas.
The masterplan is said to “celebrate” the heritage of the precinct, according to infrastructure minister Rob Stokes, while providing new community and social services hubs addressing the needs of all sections of the community.
Sydney Central Precinct is also expected to “anchor” the Tech Central precinct, slated to open in 2027.
The Department of Planning and Environment is now inviting community and stakeholder feedback. The rezoning proposal is on exhibition for public comment until Monday 19 September 2022.
