Barangaroo set for "best hotel in world", says Packer

The development of a “six-star” luxury hotel at Sydney’s Barangaroo South precinct looks set to go ahead under a new agreement between the New South Wales Government and Crown Resorts Limited.

The deal is the outcome of the third stage of Crown’s proposal for the new property, with state premier Barry O’Farrell giving the plan the green light yesterday.

However, the development is still subject to a number of conditions, including the amendment of the Casino Control Act 1992, the issuing of a licence by the Independent Gaming and Liquor Authority, necessary planning approvals and the finalization of certain agreements with the Barangaroo Delivery Authority and Barangaroo South developer Lend Lease.

Chairman James Packer said he was “humbled” by the reaching of a formal agreement with the state government.

“Sydney is one of the world’s greatest cities – it deserves one of the world’s greatest hotels. I am going to do everything I can do to make Crown Sydney the best hotel in the world,” he said.  

“Crown will build a landmark for Sydney, an architectural icon to rival some of the world’s best buildings.”

Packer expressed confidence in the talents of architect firm Wilkinson Eyre in creating a visually impressive addition to Sydney’s accommodation landscape which he expects to become a major drawcard for the lucrative Asian market – in particular the Chinese traveller.

Economic growth, extra taxes and the creation of more than 1,200 jobs will be some of the benefits of the new development for the state, he promised.

Staff will be trained at two new dedicated training colleges in Penrith and Redfern to be established in partnership with employment and training bodies United Voice Union, Penrith Panthers Group and the National Centre for Indigenous Excellence.

“When it’s completed we believe that Crown Sydney will be a globally recognised hotel resort that Sydneysiders and all Australians will be very proud of,” Packer said.