Exciting Changes Transforming Sydney’s Ultimo and Pyrmont

Exciting developments are underway as the City of Sydney reviews planning controls in the Ultimo and Pyrmont areas, aiming to unlock an impressive 4,000 new homes and create 23,000 jobs. This move is part of a comprehensive effort to align with the NSW Government’s Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy, aimed at enhancing the city’s vibrant and evolving urban landscape.

The review, which commenced in May 2022, has entered the community consultation phase. It includes potential regulations for six blocks and several dozen sites across the area, representing a golden opportunity for landowners, developers, and the community to shape the future of Sydney’s CBD. Among the key beneficiaries are the Pyrmont Bay Group’s properties on Union, Murray, and Edward Streets, which could see the development of three towers rising up to 21 storeys, delivering commercial spaces and generating more than 7,000 jobs.

Toga Group’s headquarters at Ultimo is also under the spotlight. Alongside other properties in the Wattle Street Group, they could benefit from the development of a commercial tower at 28-54 Wattle Street, adding further vibrancy to the area. The Quarry Master Drive Group on the Bank Street side stands to gain over 800 apartments and a new commercial tower, while John Street Group’s site at 48 Pirrama Road could see a commercial tower of 10 to 12 storeys emerge, offering nearly 1,800 jobs.

These proposed changes to the Sydney Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan 2012 are designed not just to accommodate growth but also to create a more liveable, sustainable environment. By increasing the floorspace and height allowances for new homes and mixed-use buildings, the city aims to respond to the growing demand for both residential and commercial spaces in this bustling precinct.

In addition to building infrastructure, the city is committed to enhancing green spaces and community amenities. Plans include widening footpaths, creating publicly accessible spaces, and planting 250 more trees to provide natural shade and beauty. The development strategy also includes adding 2,000 square metres of green rooftops, promoting eco-friendly building practices and contributing to Sydney’s sustainability goals.

To support these developments, a new local infrastructure contributions plan has been introduced, allowing the city to manage growth effectively while ensuring the community’s voice is heard through the consultation process. This initiative follows previous changes to planning controls, such as those for The Star Entertainment Group Hotel, over-station developments for the new Pyrmont Metro, and an Indigenous residential college, demonstrating Sydney’s proactive approach to urban development.

As the City of Sydney continues to shape its future, these changes promise not only to enhance the skyline but also to enrich the community by creating a dynamic mix of homes, workspaces, and green areas. The transformation of Ultimo and Pyrmont is set to breathe new life into the area, offering opportunities for all.