A Catholic priest and parishioners are opposing a proposed redevelopment of the St Mary’s Cathedral precinct in Sydney, describing it as a “hideous multi-storey building” that will degrade the heritage site and lead to the fundamental destruction of open space. The priest and parishioners have submitted their concerns to the City of Sydney, arguing that the proposed chancery building will cast a constant shadow over Cathedral House, impede access to emergency services, and destroy the architectural harmony between the Cathedral and the Chapter Hall.
The stoush over the cathedral precinct redevelopment reflects broader tensions between Sydney councils and the state government over housing reforms and their impact on heritage areas. Churches, including St Mary’s Cathedral, have become property developers, looking to capitalize on their vast real estate holdings by redeveloping properties into offices and apartments. However, the priest and parishioners are vehemently opposed to the proposed building plans, expressing disbelief that the City of Sydney would allow “such vandalism to occur.”
One parishioner, Patricia Burns, described the proposed chancery building as a modern eyesore that fails to acknowledge the Gothic architecture of St Mary’s Cathedral. She criticized the design for its lack of natural light and potential risk to life and limb due to impeding access for emergency services. Fellow parishioner Paula Flynn also condemned the proposed building, noting that it would replace a tranquil view with the side of an office block and disrupt the architectural harmony of the site. Flynn argued that the proposed building’s St Mary’s Road facade would clash visually with the Gothic style of the Cathedral and Chapter Hall.
Richard Stevens joined the chorus of opposition to the development, calling on the council to reject the Development Application (DA) to prevent overcrowding and overdevelopment on the site. He emphasized the historical significance of the site and argued that an enormous modern building should not be allowed to overshadow, dominate, and spoil its significance. The submission from the priest and parishioners highlights their deep-seated concerns about the proposed redevelopment and its potential negative impact on St Mary’s Cathedral precinct.
The clash over the St Mary’s Cathedral precinct redevelopment underscores the challenges facing heritage sites in Sydney as property developers seek to monetize their holdings through redevelopments. The priest and parishioners are staunchly opposed to the proposed chancery building, citing its potential to degrade the heritage value of the site and disrupt the architectural harmony of the Cathedral precinct. Their submission to the City of Sydney reflects a broader struggle between preservationists and developers over the future of historic landmarks and open spaces in the city. Ultimately, the fate of the St Mary’s Cathedral precinct redevelopment will hinge on the decision of the council and its response to the concerns raised by the priest and parishioners.
