Industry unites to save Sydney Harbour’s last port at Glebe Island

Industry leaders desperate to save Sydney Harbour’s last working port want an urgent meeting with the state government before the city is changed “forever”.

Industry leaders desperate to save Sydney Harbour’s last working port want an urgent meeting with the state government before the city is changed “forever”.

A coalition of 19 organisations from myriad sectors have written to Premier Chris Minns concerned Glebe Island port might be scuttled to make way for high-end apartments.

The letter, obtained by The Daily Telegraph, warns of significant economic impacts if government ignores their plea.

Central to the coalition’s call is a government-commissioned review into the future of the working port.

“We understand the … review into the future of Glebe Island includes an option to abolish vital ship access and port facilities in favour of housing,” the letter reads.

“Should this recommendation be accepted by the Government it will have severe and permanent consequences that would forever change the nature and purpose of this world-famous Harbour.

Glebe Island today. Picture: Tim Hunter.

“This Port supplies 40 per cent of the cement and 100 per cent of the gypsum – a critical ingredient for plasterboard. Without it, building and housing costs will increase.

“This Port also supplies much of Sydney’s sugar needs, with the closure leading to higher prices for consumers at the checkout.

“We are concerned that repurposing the Port for housing-only will compromise marine and industrial operations in Sydney Harbour, jeopardising billions of dollars and thousands of jobs in NSW.”

The coalition argues shutting Glebe Island port in favour of residential development around the proposed Bays metro station, set to open in 2032, will only become the latest address for the city’s rich and elite.

Design firm Architectus' vision for the Bays West area including Rozelle Bay, White Bay and Glebe Island. Images: supplied

While seeking a meeting next month, the coalition has also urged the government “not to make a rushed decision and carefully weigh up the implications” of closing the port.

“We would welcome the opportunity to work with you to find a solution that preserves Sydney’s critical industrial capability while also supporting greater housing density.”

Michael Kilgariff, CEO of Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia – one of the signatories to the letter – said: “We need the government to meet us, and hear us, before they make a decision”.

Business Sydney’s Paul Nicolau said: “The government needs to hasten slowly and consult widely in relation to Glebe Island and its role as the only remaining part of our city’s working harbour”.

Originally published as Industry unites to save Sydney Harbour’s last port at Glebe Island