The heritage-listed T2 building at Taylor Square, which has stood dormant for more than 15 years, is set for a makeover following the approval of redevelopment plans.
Previously a bank before becoming the T2 nightclub, the building has remained vacant since its closure in 2008 by the City of Sydney and the Land and Environment Court due to complaints about anti-social behaviour.
Attempts to revitalise the site have been made over the years, including a 2014 proposal for a retail bike shop, café, and offices. That plan never materialised despite approval and $7.8 million allocated for the bike hub.
The latest proposal, first reported by The Sydney Morning Herald, includes adding three storeys to the building, a rooftop, and a basement live music venue. While a rooftop restaurant was initially considered, the revised plans now include a ground-floor café and restaurant.
Archon Property, which acquired the site for $6.9 million in 2018, said the redevelopment would be architecturally sensitive and aimed to “enhance an already beautiful landmark with a contemporary addition”.
“These new land uses will be facilitated through a sensitive refurbishment of the heritage listed building, and provision of new contemporary additions above the existing buildings contributing to the streetscape and character of Oxford Street and Taylor Square,” said Archon’s development proposal.
An earlier proposed design by Archon Property was rejected after it drew significant criticism from residents, who argued it would detract from the area’s charm.
“It will be an eye sore for the area in general and make the current building that is enjoyable to observe, ugly if the proposal is approved,” said local resident Adam, who asked Gay Sydney News to remove his surname from this article after its publication for privacy reasons.
Added another local resident, Heather Leaf: “The artist’s rendition of the new development looks atrociously absurd and absolutely spoils the lovely architecture of the current building. I am concerned that this will degrade the historical charm of this area…”
Even after revisions led to the recently approved design, local residents remained dissatisfied, primarily objecting to the proposed increased height of the building.
“It appears that the new designs are even uglier and less in keeping with the area than the initial proposal lodged last year,” said Rowan Harvey.
Added another, Rod Collins: “Our reasons for objecting to this amended plan relate to the look and feel of this proposed new building, simply placed on top of a significant art-deco building with no visual relationship with the building below or other buildings (of which there are many) in the surrounding Taylors [sic] Square, it would be an eyesore.”
Despite the backlash, a heritage impact assessment deemed the design “sympathetic” in its scale, form, massing, and materiality.
Other concerns raised by residents focused on the impact of the development on sunlight access.
“My apartment directly faces this heritage building … and the small sliver of sky and sunlight that I can see from my apartment is directly above this building,” said resident Kelsey Bagust. “If this development were approved, it would significantly … impact my quality of life.”
Another resident, whose name was redacted, echoed these concerns: “I’m on the [redacted floor number] of the Belgenny apartments across the street and the development will directly impact my view to the east,” they said.
Only one submission supported the design, with the proponent arguing the area needed a refresh.
“The designs look brilliant,” said Ben Mulcahy, who owns property near the site and is the founder of the company behind Gay Sydney Australia (not to be confused with Gay Sydney News).
“It would be great to see another level or two as Taylor Square should have tall buildings. It would also be great to see hundreds of chairs and tables with umbrellas on the ground floor out the front.”
Gay Sydney News reporter