Surry Hills Archives - Page 9 of 19

$11-Million Redevelopment Approved for Crown Street, Surry Hills

A major redevelopment worth nearly $11 million has been approved for 598-610 Crown Street in Surry Hills, marking a significant step forward in transforming the area with new retail and commercial spaces.

Redevelopment Plans

The redevelopment (D/2023/902), designed by PTW Architects, will see the demolition of existing buildings at 598-602 Crown Street and partial demolition of the structures at 604-610 Crown Street. These sites will be replaced with a three-storey commercial development that combines modern architecture with respect for the area’s unique character.

The ground floor will feature six separate retail tenancies, while the upper levels will be dedicated to open-plan commercial offices. Additionally, the site will retain a central Jacaranda tree, which will be incorporated into a new outdoor courtyard area.

Crown Street Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: D/2023/902/City Of Sydney*

This proposal exceeded the local building height restriction of 12 metres, with the new structure reaching a maximum height of 13.57 metres. Despite this, the variation was granted due to the proposal’s minimal impact on surrounding properties and its alignment with the broader goals for the neighbourhood’s growth.

Local Impact and Heritage Considerations

Surry Hills has seen significant revitalisation over the past few years, and Crown Street has become the centre of this transformation. The addition of popular hospitality venues, such as Oakberry and Shuk, has contributed to the street’s growing reputation as a vibrant, trendy strip.

This new development continues that trend, with local residents and businesses seeing it as part of the area’s larger evolution. Community members say the changes represent a “new era” for Surry Hills.

However, the redevelopment also aims to preserve the area’s historical character. The project retains key heritage elements, such as the facade and internal structures of the 604-610 Crown Street buildings, contributing to the heritage conservation area.

Extensive consultation between developers, heritage consultants, and the community led to multiple design revisions. These changes addressed concerns related to overshadowing, heritage impacts, and construction disruptions to ensure the project fits within the local conservation guidelines.

*Photo Credit: D/2023/902/City Of Sydney*

Community and Environmental Focus

The new commercial precinct is part of a broader plan to make Surry Hills a greener and more sustainable neighbourhood. The building will include environmentally friendly features such as rooftop solar panels, water-efficient systems, and bike storage facilities. These initiatives align with the City of Sydney’s sustainability goals, which aim to reduce the area’s carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly transportation options.

Public spaces will also be improved as part of the project. The outdoor courtyard, centred around the preserved Jacaranda tree, will offer a communal area for both visitors and workers in the precinct. The design balances modern commerce and maintaining the natural elements that make Crown Street a lively, pedestrian-friendly area.

This redevelopment represents the latest step in Crown Street’s ongoing transformation.

Published 9-Oct-2024

Moore Park Entertainment Plans Scaled Back After Resident Backlash

Ambitious plans to revitalise Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter have been significantly downsized following a wave of objections from nearby residents.

The proposal, which initially envisioned hosting community markets, live music events, and food stalls with a capacity of 8,000 people, has been reduced to accommodate just 3,000 attendees.

The project, run by the well-known businessmen John Singleton and Gerry Harvey’s Carsingha Investments, aimed to give the Entertainment Quarter’s underused areas new life.

Moore Park — *Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map*

This response has drawn criticism from those who believe the concerns are overblown.

City of Sydney Cr Lyndon Gannon expressed his disappointment, highlighting the proximity of the Entertainment Quarter to the Sydney Cricket Ground, a venue accustomed to hosting large-scale events. He emphasised the need for Sydney to regain its vibrancy and argued that restricting entertainment options is counterproductive.

Melissa Neighbour, co-founder of Sydney YIMBY, also expressed surprise at the negative feedback, particularly given the area’s relatively high average income. She suggested that a desire for quiet evenings may contribute to Sydney’s nightlife’s decline.

In response to the objections, the City of Sydney engaged in discussions with Carsingha Investments and reviewed numerous public submissions.

With its reduced capacity, the revised proposal is expected to be approved at a council meeting, subject to strict conditions. These conditions include a 10 pm curfew for music, a ban on subwoofer speakers, and requirements for crowd control measures to minimise disruption to the neighbourhood.

Michael Hodgson, CEO of The Entertainment Quarter, remains optimistic about finding a resolution that satisfies all parties. He stressed that the proposal aims to create more daily activities and attractions within the precinct.

Published Date 27-September-2024

Surry Hills Bistro Serves Up the Best Burger in Australia

Photo Credit: The Gidley/ Instagram

A seemingly simple burger from a beloved Surry Hills bar has been named the best in Australia and the ninth best in the world.

The Gidley Burger, found at The Rover, a bustling neighbourhood venue on Campbell Street, has garnered a loyal following despite its minimalist approach—a double beef patty, cheddar cheese, and pickles nestled in a milk bun.

The Rover, part of the Liquid & Larder group, has been a Surry Hills staple for over a decade. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, the venue boasts a cosy, dimly lit interior, a copper-topped bar, an extensive drinks menu featuring classic cocktails and a curated wine list focusing on organic and biodynamic drops.

Executive Chef Pip Pratt, the creator of the Gidley Burger, believes the key to its success lies in its simplicity in this charming setting. He explained that the focus is on quality ingredients and careful preparation rather than an overload of toppings that can result in a messy eating experience.

He highlighted that the beef patties are sourced from Liquid & Larder’s butchery, ensuring complete control over the flavour profile.

The Gidley Burger takes approximately four minutes to prepare. The patties are cooked in rendered beef fat for an added depth of flavour. While the $26 price tag might raise eyebrows for some, Chef Pratt emphasises the premium quality of the ingredients and the thought behind the burger’s construction.

Hundreds of Gidley Burgers are sold weekly at The Rover and its sister establishment, The Gidley, a testament to its popularity. Despite its seemingly basic design, the Gidley Burger has struck a chord with Sydney’s burger enthusiasts.

Published Date 27-September-2024

Swans vs Lions: Dominant Sydney Look to End AFL Grand Final Woes

Minor premiers Sydney Swans will look to cap off their dominant season with a grand final victory against a resilient Brisbane Lions outfit on Saturday, 28 September, and break their recent grand final curse. Swans vs Lions kick off 2:30 p.m. at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Read: Surry Hills to Host Free Street Festival as Part of Sydney’s Neighbourhood Celebration Series

One for history

This year’s grand final marks a significant milestone in AFL history—a rematch 125 years in the making. The last time these two clubs faced off for the flag was in 1899, when they were known as South Melbourne and Fitzroy.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sydney Swans (@sydneyswans)

Now, as the Sydney Swans and Brisbane Lions, they’ll battle for supremacy in the first grand final since 2006 to not feature a Victorian team.

The pre-game entertainment, headlined by international pop star Katy Perry, is expected to start between 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Fans can catch the action live on Channel Seven and 7Plus.

Swans vs Lions

The Swans have been a force to be reckoned with throughout the 2024 season, finishing with an impressive 17-6 record and claiming the minor premiership in dominant fashion.

Their preliminary final performance against Port Adelaide showcased their full potential, with a commanding 14.11 (95) to 8.11 (59) victory against a team that finished just four points behind.

While the Swans enter as minor premiers, they’ll be wary of their recent record against the Lions. Brisbane has won the last three encounters, including a narrow two-point victory earlier this season.

An All-Australian midfield trio

The Swans’ midfield hydra of Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, and Errol Gulden has been the lynchpin of the team’s success. All three earned All-Australian selection and have combined for an impressive 82 goals this season.

Sydney’s performance in the grand final hinges on the trio, with the Swans boasting a 15-2 record when the bevy scores three or more goals collectively.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sydney Swans (@sydneyswans)

However, Sydney faces a significant blow with captain Callum Mills ruled out due to a hamstring strain. Coach John Longmire made the difficult decision on Wednesday not to risk Mills, leaving the Swans without their on-field leader for the grand final.

Read: Surry Hills Rises: $41m Hotel to Emerge from Ashes of Historic Hat Factory

Both teams carry the weight of recent grand final defeats. The Swans are looking to bounce back from their 2022 loss, while the Lions aim to overcome their heartbreaking four-point defeat in 2023.

While the Swans have a more recent premiership than the Lions, having won in 2012, they’ve experienced the sting of defeat in three deciders since then. This match presents a golden opportunity for Sydney to break their grand final voodoo once and for all.

Published 25-September-2024

Surry Hills to Host Free Street Festival as Part of Sydney’s Neighbourhood Celebration Series

Surry Hills residents and visitors will enjoy a day of festivities, live music, and alfresco dining on Crown Street as part of the Sydney Streets festival series this spring.

The event, scheduled for Saturday 2 November, is one of seven free one-day celebrations across Sydney neighbourhoods aimed at showcasing local venues, businesses, and products. From 11am to 10pm, Crown Street will be closed to traffic, transforming into a pedestrian-friendly space filled with community activities and entertainment.

Local Business Participation

Several Surry Hills businesses are set to participate in the event. YO-CHI will offer DJ performances and kids’ games, while Tucano’s plans to set up a pop-up bar with live music. For those interested in health and wellness, Central to Health Chiropractic will provide free spinal screenings. Masala Theory will join the festivities by operating a food stall on the street.

Crown St Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Sydney LM Clover Moore AO expressed enthusiasm for the event series, stating, “We started these neighbourhood celebrations to help local communities get back on their feet after the pandemic, and they’ve become more and more popular.”

“Sydney Streets gives a boost to local businesses and helps create thriving and connected communities,” she added.

Other Participating Suburbs

The spring Sydney Streets festival series will also feature events in six other Sydney suburbs:

1. Haymarket (21 September)

2. Potts Point (28 September)

3. Glebe (12 October)

4. Darlinghurst (19 October)

5. Pyrmont (9 November)

6. Redfern (16 November)

Each location will showcase its unique character through various activities, food offerings, and entertainment options.

Traffic and Transport Information

For all events in the series, surrounding streets will be closed to traffic from 9am to 11:30pm, with special event clearways in place. Residents and visitors are advised to check livetraffic.com for full road and traffic details to plan their travel accordingly.

The Sydney Streets festival series aims to encourage locals and visitors to explore the city’s diverse neighbourhoods while supporting local businesses and fostering community connections as Sydney embraces the spring season.

Published 23-Sept-2024

Surry Hills Rises: $41m Hotel to Emerge from Ashes of Historic Hat Factory

Photo Credit: D/2019/1292

A massive fire 16 months ago devastated a historic hat factory in Surry Hills, setting it up for a phoenix-like transformation into a multimillion-dollar hotel.

The City of Sydney has approved a nine-storey development to replace the former Hendersons Hat Factory, bringing new life to the site that was once a bustling hub of Sydney’s millinery industry.

The $41.4 million redevelopment at 7-15 Randle Street will feature a 123-room hotel, two restaurants, a bar, and a cafe. It will also pay homage to the site’s industrial heritage by incorporating salvaged remnants of the fire-ravaged factory, including charred wood and brickwork.

The City of Sydney’s approval of the plans underscores the development’s alignment with the area’s desired future character and its efforts to restore elements crucial to the site’s heritage significance. The site owners welcome this decision, as the fire tragically interrupted their previous redevelopment plans.

The approved plans showcase a thoughtful approach to preserving the site’s history. A public and interpretative digital art strategy will commemorate the 112-year-old hat factory’s legacy. The new structure will integrate charred timber posts, beams, and an original fire bell salvaged from the inferno.

Before the fire, the factory was well-known for its role in Australia’s domestic and international production of felt and straw hats. R. Henderson, a manufacturer of ladies’ hats, had the factory built in 1912. C. Henderson, the factory operated for about 40 years before closing in the 1950s, reflecting the broader decline of Sydney’s millinery industry.

The redevelopment also includes landscaping, pedestrian links, and streetscape improvements. While the fire caused the evacuation of hundreds of nearby residents and businesses and led to charges against two 13-year-old boys, the focus now shifts to the future.

The transformation of this landmark site into a vibrant hotel complex signals a new chapter for Surry Hills, blending historical preservation with modern development.

Published Date 20-September-2024

Surry Hills Fave, Warike, Announces Closure After Economic Downturn

Warike, a beloved fusion eatery in Surry Hills known for its unique Peruvian-Japanese cuisine, has declared it will cease operations due to the rising cost of living challenges.

Warike opened its doors during the peak of Sydney’s COVID-19 lockdowns, quickly earning a reputation for its specialised dishes such as oysters, kingfish, and ceviche. Despite receiving high praise and accolades, including listings as one of the best restaurants in NSW by the Good Food Guide and in Surry Hills by Time Out Sydney, the economic pressures have led to its impending shutdown.

Warike Restaurant — *Photo Credit: Warike/Google Maps*

The restaurant’s team expressed pride in their achievements and their community role.

“The proudest achievement of all is to have been a safe space for our team to come together, learn, grow, and feel motivated to look after each other and do their best.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐇𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 (@warikesydney)

The announcement has left many patrons and local food enthusiasts disheartened.

Several customers shared their disappointment, with one noting, “Warike was on my list of restaurants and destinations to visit in Sydney. I’m gutted this won’t happen anymore.” The sentiment was echoed by others who praised the restaurant’s high-quality service and innovative menu.

The closure of Warike follows the shutdown of its sister venue, Lima Nikkei, in Walsh Bay in January 2024. Co-owned by Luis Guzman, Valeriya Finogeeva, and Hector Chunga, Warike was more than a commercial venture; it was a passion project that brought together flavours from Japan and Peru, reflecting Chunga’s culinary background.

Despite the economic downturn affecting the hospitality sector, Warike’s impact on Sydney’s culinary scene has been significant, introducing a novel fusion that captivated many.

As Warike prepares for its final service on 14 September 2024, the owners have invited their supporters to enjoy one last meal at their establishment. They have thanked their regulars, guests, and neighbours for their steadfast support over the years.

Fans of the restaurant have vowed to cherish their memories of the venue’s spectacular dishes, highlighting the profound loss to Sydney’s diverse food community.

Published 11-Sept-2024

Surry Hills Icon “The Shakey” Sold After Nearly 50 Years

Photo Credit: Google Maps

The Shakespeare Hotel, a cornerstone of Surry Hills since 1879 and known locally as “The Shakey,” has been sold for the first time in almost 50 years. This transaction marks a significant change for the Surry Hills community, where the pub has long been a social hub.

Margaret Hargreaves, who has owned the pub since 1975, made the decision to sell earlier this year. Hargreaves initially leased the pub before acquiring the freehold in 1978, demonstrating her commitment by moving her family into the establishment for three months to focus on the business.

The new owner is Laurence Collins, who also operates the leasehold of The London Hotel in Balmain. Collins has stated his intention to preserve the character of The Shakey, recognising its importance to the Surry Hills community. He emphasised that he does not plan to change the overall fabric of the hotel.

While the exact sale price has not been disclosed, industry speculation had suggested a figure around $12 million when the property was first listed. Kate MacDonald of JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group, who managed the sale, indicated that Mrs. Hargreaves was satisfied with the price received.

The Shakespeare Hotel’s significance to Surry Hills extends beyond its role as a local pub. It has been a constant presence in the neighbourhood for over 140 years, witnessing the area’s evolution. The sale represents a change in ownership for a place that has been central to Surry Hills’ social landscape for generations.

As the keys are set to change hands in mid-September, the Surry Hills community will be observing how this transition affects one of their most recognisable local landmarks. The sale of The Shakey marks the end of an era in Surry Hills’ hospitality scene and the beginning of a new chapter for this historic establishment.

Published 2-September-2024

Suspect Charged in Sydney Luxury Vehicles Graffiti Spree

A 49-year-old man has been charged in connection with a series of graffiti attacks on luxury vehicles across Sydney, including Surry Hills. The arrest comes after the establishment of Strike Force Opelika to investigate numerous incidents of vehicle vandalism reported this month.

Between August 19 and August 28, 2024, police received 87 reports of vehicles damaged with spray paint while parked on public streets. These incidents spanned multiple police command areas, including Surry Hills, Kings Cross, Eastern Suburbs, and Leichhardt.

Following extensive inquiries and a public appeal, police executed a search warrant at a unit on Pyrmont Bridge Road, Camperdown, at approximately 3 pm on Friday, August 30. The suspect was subsequently arrested and taken to Newtown Police Station.

The man has been charged with 23 counts of destroy or damage property. He was refused bail and is scheduled to appear at Parramatta Local Court on Saturday, August 31, 2024.

Published 31-August-2024

Humble Bakery in Surry Hills Voted Best Finger Bun in Australia

The fingers buns of Humble Bakery in Surry Hills took centre stage at Wotif’s 2024 Uniquely Aussie Awards as the ‘Best Fingers Buns in Australia.‘

The award-winning finger bun has been lauded for its gourmet twist on the classic Australian treat, featuring dried cranberries, golden raisins, currants, and a pink cream cheese frosting, all generously topped with butter from Coppertree Farm.

The bakery, with locations in both Surry Hills and Circular Quay, ‘takes the bake’ with this prestigious title after the public voted in the annual awards, which recognise the best local food and experiences across the country.

A Fresh Take on a Classic

Co-owner Ben Milgate credits the success of their finger buns to the winning combination of high-quality ingredients and a modern twist on the traditional recipe. Instead of the usual Boston icing found on most finger buns, Humble Bakery uses a cream cheese frosting, a standout feature for many customers.

Ben said the bakery aimed to evoke nostalgia, bringing back memories of childhood treats while offering a fresh, gourmet experience. He noted that the buns are made fresh daily, starting early in the morning, and often sell out before midday due to their popularity. He shared that the finger buns have a special place in Australian culture, cherished for their simplicity and ability to evoke fond memories.

Community Recognition

Rebecca Hurley, a travel expert from Wotif, highlighted that the Uniquely Aussie Awards aim to celebrate the unique gems found across Australia, based on votes from over a thousand people. She mentioned that these awards not only acknowledge great food but also capture the spirit of Australian culture and the joy of discovering local favourites.

Alongside Humble Bakery’s win, the awards also recognised other local favourites, including Kenilworth Bakery in Queensland for the best sausage roll, and The Terrace Rooftop Bar in Brisbane for the best hotel bar.

The awards showcase the diversity and quality of local Australian offerings, from food to experiences, emphasising the pride Australians have in their local businesses and iconic treats.

Follow Humble Bakery on Facebook for updates about their store.

Published 27-Aug-2024