Wynyard Park: $36m plans lodged for 13-storey development on York Street

A 13-storey mixed-use development could be a new neighbour for the former Bank of NSW building if council approves the ‘vehicle free’ $36m project. See what the developers would replace basement car spaces with.

A proposal for a 13-storey, $36m mixed-use development will be put before council. Picture: Tzannes

The former Bank of New South Wales heritage building could soon have a 13-storey neighbour if a $36m proposal is approved by the City of Sydney Council.

A development proposal has been lodged to demolish a vacant corner shop at 4-6 York St, next door to the former bank building at 341 George St, to construct a 54m tall mixed-use development, including an outdoor terrace and entertainment facility.

A planner on the project said that two pre-DA meetings had been held with City of Sydney council staff in June and September 2022 to address issues if architectural style, sustainability and site heritage for the location on the edge of Wynyard Park.

“The proposed design will see existing structures on the site demolished, with a new building constructed that contains basement-level services, commercial spaces on levels 1-7 and 10-12, retail space on the upper-ground floor and food and drink premises/entertainment facilities on the upper-ground floor, mezzanine, and levels 8-9,” the planner said.

“The design will also provide the lobby area capability to enable 24/7 secure access to level 8, as well as retail activation on the lane, York Street and Wynyard Street.”

The former Bank of New South Wales signage will be retained in the proposed design of the development. Picture: Tzannes

The development will be a vehicle free building, however the basement will contain 42 secure bicycle spaces and “end of trip” facilities including showers and lockers.

The development would mean the ‘Bank of New South Wales’ signage would no longer be visible from the street, however it would remain fully visible from inside the new development, retaining the building’s history.

The proposed 13-storey development will sit on the southern edge of Wynyard Park. Picture: Tzannes

The planner for the project said the heritage, structure and architectural elements had been carefully considered and balanced to arrive at the proposed design outcome.

“The proposed works do not impact areas of the heritage building that have been assessed as being of exceptional significance and the design positively enables the retention of the Bank of NSW sign,” the planner said.

“Although taller, the new building would have a far smaller footprint than 341 George Street … this would ensure that the older building would remain a strong and prominent element in the streetscape.

“The architectural language adopted for the proposed new building would not replicate that of 341 George Street. Instead, the new building would be contemporary in design and an honest expression of its time.”

The City of Sydney Council has notified surrounding neighbours to seek their views on the proposal and are currently accepting comments from the public.

Plans are on exhibition until January 20, 2023.