22 August 2013
The positive response by the NSW Government to the unsolicited proposal to renew the Wynyard Station concourse and build a new commercial tower above is good news for Sydney, says the Urban Taskforce.
The redevelopment of Wynyard through new public domain improvements demonstrates how the private sector can contribute to public spaces as part of major projects, says Urban Taskforce CEO, Chris Johnson. The improved public domain will connect with the new pedestrian network to Barangaroo, so the timing is perfect to get this part of Sydney renewed.
The proposal by Brookfield looks like a win-win. A win for the private sector with more commercial office space and a win for the public with a streamlined public concourse making Wynyard a better station.
We support the NSW Governments use of the unsolicited proposal process as this combines private sector innovation and understanding of market forces with public sector needs for infrastructure improvements at a time when the states budget is stretched.
Clearly design will be important in delivering a quality outcome for this significant precinct in the city and Brookfield have demonstrated with all their projects a concern to deliver lasting quality.
The Urban Taskforce looks forward to the next stage of the planning process and we encourage Brookfield to demonstrate creativity and innovation as the project is progressed.
