BY CHRISTOPHER HARRIS
A new IMAX theatre has not yet been built, but it has already been labelled the “snail”.
The speed of redevelopment has been anything but at a snail’s pace in Darling Harbour, and has not had sufficient community consultation, locals have said.
Pyrmont resident Leone Huntsman said that the latest concept plan was “the last straw” for the precinct.
At 23 storeys with hotels and serviced apartments, 170 above- ground parking spaces, the new building will expand significantly, taking out attractions such as an historic carosel nearby.
The Department of Planning’s statement did not say where the carousel would be relocated.
“When they say think about it later, you could almost say forget it,” Ms Huntsman said.
“I think Darling harbor has lost any human scale. Previously it has been a place for families to visit on weekends and enjoy, but now the huge buildings have replaced the people,” she said.
“What has happened to Darling Harbor is appalling. It is no longer place for people of Sydney. It is totally overshadowed by looming buildings.
Convenor Pyrmont Action Group Elizabeth Elanius told City Hub she was concerned about the height and footprint of the new building, because it was significantly larger than the current one.
“The new IMAX, will completely block the northern sun from Tumbalong park and the children’s playground.”
A department of Planning and Environment spokesperson said that the community will have the opportunity to express their views on the proposed development.
“Community consultation is an integral part of the planning process and the applicant will have to respond to the feedback we receive.
“Feedback received is taken into consideration when we assess projects and develop our recommendations,” the spokesperson said.
“It’s easy to participate by going online and we encourage everyone to take a look and have their say.”
But Elizabeth Elanius said the consultation process was a “farce”.
“We don’t have a say. They put it on exhibition, and we make submission. It means nothing, all it is a tick a box exercise for the developer and the Planning Department.”
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