Australian gambling operator Crown Resorts has implemented certain changes to the design of the casino it plans to build at Sydney’s Barangaroo precinct, local media reported. It is believed that the company has made a number of concessions as a result from concerns raised by the New South Wales Department of Planning and in a bid to eventually commence construction work on the delayed project.
In February, the state planning department voiced concerns regarding the bulk of the podium where the actual casino would be placed as well as the way it invaded more public space than necessary. As it seems, Crown Resorts and the company’s design advisories have agreed on certain changes to be made on the project so it meets state officials and residents’ needs and demands.
The bulk of the podium’s facade that faces a public walkway at the precinct has been reduced. However, the casino’s overall gaming space has remained unchanged. Gambling options will be provided over two floors of the podium, which would be an overall nine-level one.
In addition, public space between the podium and the Watermans Cove has beeen widened and the facade has been broken up into several distinct elements instead of being one solid form. There will also be multiple entrances for visitors of the hotel and casino complex.
Reportedly, the Department of Planning said last month that it would grant the necessary approval for the project, provided that Crown Resorts reduces the podium’s size and moves it away from the waterfront.
Construction works on the project were expected to commence more than a year and a half ago. However, Crown Resorts first needs to receive an approval from the state planning department before proceeding with the construction of the hotel and casino complex. Originally, the gambling operator planned to launch the venue sometime in 2019. It seems now that it is more likely to open doors as early as 2021.
Crown Resorts is planning to build a A$2-billion hotel and casino resort, with the gambling facility primarily being intended for VIP customers from the Asia-Pacific region. The venue is to be located on the waterfront of the Sydney central business district.
