Plans for Sydney’s controversial new public square in doubt after NSW government intervention
Summary
Plans for a large new public square in central Sydney are uncertain after the New South Wales (NSW) planning minister took control of the approval process from the City of Sydney. The project has faced opposition from the NSW premier and some local businesses, and will now undergo a detailed government review.Key Facts
- The new public square is planned opposite Sydney’s town hall and was expected to be finished by 2031.
- Designs include a semi-circular open area facing Hyde Park, with a fountain and native trees.
- The project has caused disagreement between Sydney’s lord mayor, Clover Moore, and NSW premier Chris Minns.
- Premier Minns called the project expensive and disruptive, concerned it would hurt local businesses.
- The NSW planning minister, Paul Scully, declared the project "state significant," moving approval from the city council to the state level.
- This means the NSW Independent Planning Commission (IPC) will assess the project, and the minister has final approval power.
- Woolworths opposes the plan as one of its stores would be demolished for the square.
- Lord Mayor Moore supports the state takeover and remains confident the project will be approved.
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