Packer’s vision takes step closer

Packer’s vision takes step closer
By admin


James Packer’s vision to create “the best hotel in the world” at Barangaroo has taken a step forward as the plan moved to the second stage of consideration.

The NSW Government said this morning that Crown’s proposal for a “six star hotel” – even though such a rating does not exist – and casino has “moved to the second stage of consideration”.

Premier Barry O’Farrell said the initial stage one assessment has been passed with the plan now set for a “rigorous appraisal to see if it is in the state’s best interests”.

“In the next stage, the net benefit of granting a gaming licence at Barangaroo, and the conditions that should apply to ensure the maximum benefit to NSW over time, will be comprehensively assessed,” he said.

Crown described the progression as a “major step forward”.

“No other organisation can deliver this unique project at Barangaroo,” chief executive Rowen Craigie said. “A six star hotel resort on the waterfront at Barangaroo will assist Sydney to compete with the best cities in the world for international tourists and for major conferences and events.”

But Crown reiterated that “VIP gaming” was essential for the development to be viable.

To allow the construction of a second casino, parliament would have to approve changes to legislation.

O’Farrell, who said poker machines would not be allowed, denied in reports that such changes were now inevitable.

He also stressed the state government would honour Star’s exclusivity agreement that prevents any new casino from opening before November 14 2019.

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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