NSW takes control of approvals for Sydney Town Hall Square
The proposed A$94 million civic plaza will undergo a state assessment process, but has not received development approval.
The NSW government has taken over planning oversight of Sydney's proposed Town Hall Square, designating the council's A$94 million project a State Significant Development.
Planning Minister Paul Scully accepted the Independent Planning Commission's recommendation for the designation after pausing work on the proposed 4,500-square-metre plaza outside Town Hall. The commission considered the appropriate approval pathway, not whether construction should be approved.
Scully said the process would involve assessment across government and public consultation on a development application before the commission made its decision. Commission member Richard Pearson said the proposal could bring substantial economic and public benefits, with state-owned transport infrastructure giving it importance beyond the council's boundaries.
City of Sydney councillors unanimously backed proceeding with design and construction in February, and plans were exhibited for feedback in August. The council says the square is needed as a venue for community gatherings, music and markets. Several buildings acquired by the city since the 1980s would be demolished.
The council previously warned that state designation could add avoidable expense or delays, while saying delivery would be coordinated with the NSW government. It estimates a cost of A$94 million and has allocated A$150 million to cover potential overruns.
