After more than two decades as a barren concrete slab, the long-vacant site at Central Barangaroo is finally set to be transformed into a bustling commercial and residential hub. The NSW government has finally given the greenlight to Aqualand’s project, with construction set to begin by the end of 2025.
The long-delayed development promises to deliver a significant economic boost to Sydney. It is expected to generate $2.26B in economic activity during construction and contribute $134M annually once completed.
The renewed vision will bring luxury apartments, a hotel and over 50 retail spaces – including restaurants, bars and entertainment venues – to one of Sydney’s most iconic waterfront locations.
At least 50% of the 104,000 sqm site will be dedicated to public spaces, including a 270-metre waterfront boardwalk and a 1.8-hectare entertainment zone.
The approval marks the end of more than a decade of legal and planning battles. Disputes over building heights and concerns about obstructing iconic harbour views from Observatory Hill led to fierce opposition from local groups and corporate heavyweights like Crown and Lendlease.
The final compromise reduces the height of the northern section from eight storey to five, preserving key water views. With these concerns now resolved, Aqualand is set to lodge a detailed DA, which the government expects to approve swiftly.
The project delays have drawn criticism from business leaders who argue the NSW government should have acted sooner. Some have pointed out that a metro line was planned and delivered in the time it took to approve Barangaroo Central, calling the drawn-out process an “embarrassment”.
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