A number of new plans for the Walsh Bay Arts and Cultural Precinct (WBACP) redevelopment project have been revealed.
According to the government, the rejuvenation of the WBACP is a priority infrastructure project and will comprise the redevelopment of Pier 2/3 and Wharf 4/5.
Located within a heritage site on Sydney Harbour, the proposal by the NSW government is to redevelop the site in order to create a public arts and cultural hub on Sydney’s waterfront, while at the same time, preserving its iconic heritage status.
The WBACP proposal covers all construction work along with plans for new commercial and event uses and also includes the re-use of the building for new performance venues, as well as modifications to the roof.
Other proposed refurbishments include a series of stairs, external lifts and balconies designed as a contemporary interpretation of the original gantries designed to reflect the precincts former industrial heritage.
At the same time, the government has said that at this stage, the Waterfront Square section of Walsh Bay is not being considered for redevelopment, and does not form part of this State Significant Development (SSD) application.
“The Department is very keen to hear the community’s views on the plans,” says Anthea Sargeant, executive director of Key Sites and Industry Assessments.
“We highly value community feedback, and the Department will take it into consideration when assessing this new proposal. Anyone is welcome to come and look at the plans,” she says.
Architectural firm Tonkin Zulaikah Greer, which has worked on the refurbishment of Customs House, Carriageworks and the Sydney Opera House, was appointed in March 2016 as the project architects.
To view the public exhibition click here or for public submissions, click here.
