Planning for the future

Visionary building plan for central Sydney gets the green light

The new plan paves the way for future growth and prosperity in the heart of Sydney.

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Our new planning framework for central Sydney has received the go-ahead from the state government.

The Central Sydney planning framework will, for the first time, allow for buildings taller than 300 metres in the right locations to create space for business and investment to grow, while safeguarding public spaces.

This vision for Sydney’s future is backed by the most detailed planning review of the city centre in more than 4 decades. It will play a critical role in Sydney's recovery from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Graham Jahn AM, Director City Planning Development and Transport, said the long-awaited approval of the new planning framework will help create jobs, promote economic growth and protect inner-city heritage.

The Central Sydney planning framework is backed by the most detailed planning review of the city centre in more than 40 years
The Central Sydney planning framework is backed by the most detailed planning review of the city centre in more than 40 years

“The City of Sydney has conducted extensive consultation with local communities, businesses and landowners in the development of this important planning vision,” Mr Jahn said.

“We’ve been given the green light to move forward and implement our work to make Sydney a global destination for businesses, visitors and our residents in the wake of the devastating coronavirus pandemic.

“Allowing the city to grow with carefully located towers that respect heritage sites and buildings and ensure sunlight and access for our wonderful public spaces is an important achievement.

“This will build on the city centre’s attractiveness as a great place to work, invest and live while protecting our city’s identity for all to enjoy and benefit from.”

The City of Sydney also welcomes the NSW Government’s commitment to increase the developer contribution levy to 3%.

This will help to fund the public spaces and facilities that are needed to support the growth of our global city centre, and build on central Sydney’s attractiveness for businesses, investors, residents and visitors.

The City of Sydney is now working with developers looking to build carefully designed new projects in line with the new framework.

Current proposals include developments at 2 Chifley Square, 187 Thomas Street and 133 Castlereagh Street, with more projects in the pipeline.

Published 30 November 2021, updated 1 December 2021

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