Sydney’s billion dollar makeover
Sydney’s skyline is about to get a shiny $1 billion makeover following the unveiling of plans for a complete revamp of the tired 43-storey AMP building overlooking Circular Quay.
Danish architectural firm, 3XN have been appointed to undertake the project, which will oversee the building, Quay Quarter Tower, transform into an angular glass structure open-plan hot-desk style office, and also include an adjacent low-rise laneway precinct fitted with 100 boutique apartments, shops and cafes.
This is the first step in AMP Capital’s plans to rejuvenate the precinct, as it also owns other properties in the area also earmarked for redesign.
The Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) have welcomed the move, saying it is a “vital precinct and should be the catalyst for further investment and renewal”.
TTF acting chief executive Trent Zimmerman said AMP Capital’s plans are "spectacular".
“As the gateway to Sydney, Circular Quay plays a central role in tourism, featuring iconic institutions like the Sydney Opera House and Museum of Contemporary Art Australia and housing the country’s busiest cruise port in the Overseas Passenger Terminal,” Zimmerman said.
“It is also one of the city’s most important transport hubs and that role will be further enhanced when the light rail line is built in the next few years.
Zimmerman said the Circular Quay precinct should be a “priority” for the committee in charge of work around Sydney Harbour.
“Getting that coordination right for Circular Quay has eluded successive governments over generations and the Wielinga Committee should prioritise the precinct as one that is vitally important to our international image.
“Building on AMP Capital’s plans for the Quay Quarter Sydney to renew and activate the entire Circular Quay precinct will attract more visitors and encourage people to stay longer, growing visitor expenditure and helping New South Wales and Australia reach their Tourism 2020 targets,” Zimmerman said.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
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