James Packer has gained approval for his new high roller casino in Sydney, but the plan has attracted some criticism from industry experts. Peter Mould, the former government architect for New South Wales has recently spoken out against several changes that Mr Packer has proposed.
According to a report in the Sydney Morning Herald, Mr Mould argues that there is an imbalance between the potential benefits for the public and Packer’s own personal gain. He says that it is important that the public receives more benefits from the proposed changes; otherwise, these particular changes should not be implemented. "I've always held that the public realm is as important as the private realm," he says.
"We certainly need development… But that's got to be balanced with the protection of the public interest. And I can't see that balance here." While the original plan for the casino resort complex was approved by the government earlier this year, Packer has made some amendments. In addition to hosting a VIP-only casino, Packer wants the property to also be home to luxury apartments and hotel rooms.
This would require the construction of a 275-metre building – much higher than the170-metre building that was originally proposed. Another change would move a public park further away from the harbour and closer to the city. This would make more room for the casino complex. As such, he has suggested that the proposal should be assessed as a new concept rather than a modification.
Chris Wilkinson, Crown’s current architect, has responded to the criticism: "I've worked on urban regeneration in other places. There's always a reluctance to accept change but it has to happen," he says. "If you go into the country it's constantly changing, trees are growing and dying and we as humans have a limited life … you can't stop change."
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