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07 Jan 2025

Three Developers Shortlisted to Transform Blackwattle Bay

Three Developers Shortlisted to Transform Blackwattle Bay

The NSW Government has announced a major milestone in the transformation of Blackwattle Bay. Three developers have been shortlisted to renew 3.6 hectares of Government-owned land, which is currently home to the Sydney Fish Market. This redevelopment is a critical element of the Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy and follows an extensive planning process to ensure alignment with community needs and state objectives. The shortlisted developers will submit detailed proposals in early 2025.

Planning Background

Blackwattle Bay has been designated a State Significant Precinct (SSP), recognising its importance in delivering housing, jobs, and public spaces. The renewal process follows a rigorous SSP planning framework, ensuring that development aligns with economic, social, and environmental goals. The process integrates extensive community consultation, with feedback shaping critical aspects such as building heights, density, and open spaces.

The relocation of the Sydney Fish Market to a purpose-built facility has unlocked the potential for this large-scale renewal. Proposed updates to planning controls will enable flexible land-use while maintaining current building height and gross floor area limits. Additionally, the precinct is designed to reflect its cultural and historical significance, integrating Indigenous stories, industrial heritage, and sustainable urban design principles.

The new precinct will also improve connectivity, integrating seamlessly with transport hubs such as the future Pyrmont Metro Station, light rail, and Sydney’s CBD. These improvements ensure Blackwattle Bay becomes a model for accessible and sustainable urban living.

Development Overview

The transformation of the current Sydney Fish Market site will deliver a vibrant mixed-use precinct. Key features include:

  • Up to 1,200 new homes.
  • Over 5,600 jobs in a mix of industries.
  • More than 30,000 square metres of green space, including a 1.1-hectare park at Bank Street.
  • A harbourside promenade completing Sydney’s 15-kilometre foreshore walk from Woolloomooloo to Rozelle Bay.

The precinct will balance residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, with public domain improvements ensuring it becomes a key destination for locals and visitors alike. The design also incorporates sustainability principles, aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2041.

Shortlisted Developers and Their Role

The following developers, all renowned for their expertise in urban renewal, will compete to deliver this landmark project:

  • Lendlease Development Pty Ltd
  • Mirvac Office Developments Pty Ltd
  • Stockland Urban Development Sub 2C Pty Ltd

These developers will bring world-class innovation and design excellence to the precinct, ensuring it aligns with the vision of a dynamic waterfront destination.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The renewal respects the Wangal and Gadigal people, the traditional custodians of the land. The design incorporates cultural elements such as yarning circles, storytelling through songlines, and public art. These features celebrate the site’s Indigenous heritage, alongside its industrial history as a working harbour. The project aims to create a place that is not only functional but also deeply connected to its unique identity.

Broader Vision for Blackwattle Bay

Blackwattle Bay will be transformed into a thriving urban village, reconnecting the harbour to its surrounding neighbourhoods. The precinct’s focus on accessibility, cultural connection, and sustainability ensures it will serve as a hub for innovation, recreation, and community life.

This project is expected to generate substantial economic benefits, including a $730 million annual boost to the state economy and $30 million in tourism revenue, directly supporting local businesses. The integration of public spaces, transport, and community facilities reflects a holistic approach to urban renewal.

 

Source: Urban Digest

 

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