Sydney Mayor cops heat as NSW Minister puts a pause on Town Hall development

Planning Minister Paul Scully has put controversial Town Hall Square plans on hold. Picture NewsWire / Monique Harmer Plans for Sydney’s controversial Town Hall Square have skidded to a halt after the NSW Planning Minister used extraordinary powers to intervene. The new plaza is expected to cost $150m and requires the demolition of seven buildings opposite Town Hall, which has led to criticisms of unnecessary spending and a loss of heritage. MORE: First look at controversial $150m Sydney project An artist’s impression of the proposed Town Hall Square unveiled just a month ago. Picture: Choi Render MORE: Popular Sydney pub to get $100m change Just a month after images were unveiled, Planning Minister Paul Scully announced on Thursday that the planning applications would not progress until he was able to obtain independent advice. “I have today issued a direction … to prevent determination of any development applications for its Town Hall Square proposal until I receive and make public advice on its State Significance from the Independent Planning Commission (IPC),” Mr Scully said. Artist render of a proposed Sydney Town Hall Square. Picture: Supplied MORE: Big housing change coming ...