Powerhouse Ultimo Modification 1 - Additional demolition and rebuild of the Wran Building, removal of the loading dock and other internal and external changes

I object to the Powerhouse Ultimo Modification 1. The total demolition of the Wran building, and the further degradation of the functionality and design of the Powerhouse Museum revealed in Modification1, is a shameful betrayal of the public interest, a shocking waste of fit-for-purpose museum assets, the corruption of heritage conservation processes, and a breach of explicit promises by the NSW government that the Powerhouse Museum, and the Wran building in particular, would be saved. It defies credulity that the claimed necessity for Modification 1 was only discovered after the tender process was underway. The timeline for the preparation of Mod 1 suggests the complete demolition of the Wran building and the Powerhouse Museum was always the intention of the proponents.

I object to the project. The details of my objection are in the attached document.

This proposal takes the Powerhouse museum "renewal" even further away from what the people of Sydney fought to save, and even further away from what the Museum was supposed to be like.

The decision to demolish the Wran building is being justified as necessary to accommodate the structural needs of the new brick facades, and the complexities of holding up the original structure during renovation. Both of which would be unnecessary if instead, moves we being made to properly restore and retain the character of the museum, not gut it, turning it into big empty display spaces.
Giving up on the bricks, the truncation of the building, and the full gutting of its interior would be a far better outcome.

The significance of the postmodernist Wran building continues to be understated, despite several heritage assessments confirming it, including the scrapped CMP by Alan Croker (with who I have discussed this several times), the report by Lovell Chen for city of Sydney, and much of the documentation which initially accompanied the recent attempt to get heritage protection for the whole museum. Yet all this continues to be ignored in favour of reports cherrypicked to favour the sort of demolition and adaption for commercial use that Sydneysiders have been fighting since 2014.

Calling this proposal like for like in terms of spatial character is absurd. The light from the end windows, and ceiling windows, plus the visuals of all the steel structures are key to the character of the galleria. This proposal completely changes this, completely undoing the nature of this space. (see images Glenndening&Model and corridor1 as reference)
The original vision for the powerhouse was for a series of contiguous spaces, but this proposal spits it into isolated sections, separated from each other.
Similarly the demolition of the Wran hall spells the end of the murals, and most of the smaller postmodernist sub-structures like the boardroom. Harris st once had views into the displays of the museum, instead this proposal gives us shop fronts.
The proposal mentioned "the intent is to retain the distinctive architectural character of the original structural design, and ensure that it can revealed/recaptured at any time in the future. " But this could not be further from what they've actually designed does. Restorating the " distinctive architectural character" would mean undoing everything they currently plan to do.

It's ironic, that almost all of the original restoration work is being treated as non-historic imitation, and being stripped out. But that was done very carefully, with features like the tiled floor of the engine room being the result of much careful research. This time, it's not even a good imitation. It's hardly even the right shape.

The powerhouse museum was legendary for more than just being Sydney's science museum - it was the way you felt once inside it, the way the building and the exhibits came together significantly elevated the experience. In parts it was colourful and eccentric, exuding the excitement and possibility of science and design. In other parts it felt like a step into history with the setting matching the steam age machines on display. Somehow, both of these aspects are being stripped away - homogenised into trendy brick walled voids.
The museum needed some changes after years of poor management, but this plan just continues to take it in the same bad direction.

Not a single detail of this beloved museum is going to survive, should this renovation go forward. The restored engine room, the mezzanines designed to echo the decks of the original power plant, none of the murals, train station like galleria arches, any of the remaining postmodernist detail or form - all being demolished. This proposal is an even further erosion of the character of this once beloved building. And yet they still have the gall to call it a "heritage restoration". It's like they never even studied the original museum.
It is a disgrace, and an insult to all those who worked to create what was once a legendary museum in the first place.

I have also attached my submission to this project from previous rounds, outlining how the whole proposal fails to live up to what the powerhouse museum was, or what the government promised to restore. This project should never have been given the go ahead in the first place - it all reeks of political interference.

Dear Thomas,

Docomomo Australia has made a series of submissions objecting to the proposed Powerhouse Museum Project , Ultimo and appreciates the opportunity to review the current revised proposal.

After a detailed review of the project documents Docomomo Australia submits that the revised scheme, as represented in Revision G drawings, continues to constitute a major demolition of the museum infrastructure that was opened in 1988 and is not an appropriate treatment of the State Heritage Register (SHR) listed former power station, or the now SHR listed 1988 Wran Wing & Galleria.

Given that the entire site is now listed as an item of environmental heritage of State significance, the proposal, as represented in the Revision G architectural drawings, is not an appropriate approach to maintaining the heritage significance of the site, both as a building complex of architectural significance, and also as an educational and cultural institution of national significance.

In the proposed Revision G scheme, the entirety of the 1988 museum’s physical structure and infrastructure will still be removed. Some of the major features are:
• The Wran Wing and Galleria will be permanently demolished and rebuilt in a much altered pastiche of the original,
• The mezzanine floors and all the current infrastructure in all the buildings will be demolished,
• The Harris Street forecourt and colonnade will be demolished,
• The lightweight cladding of the end walls of the Wran Wing and Galleria will be removed and replaced with brick,
• A courtyard addition positioned south of the Wran Wing and facing Harris Street, which in its location, form and materials will have a major impact on the Wran Wing.

Docomomo Australia questions the rationale behind these major changes. The need to demolish the entirety of the Wran Wing and the Galleria has come about through an apparently belated realisation that the lightweight steel structure of the 1988 buildings cannot support the proposed heavyweight brick cladding and additions. With a building of State significance the correct approach should have been to thoroughly understand both the design and fabric of the existing buildings and design any alterations and additions to complement the existing buildings. From the outset, the significance of the 1988 buildings’ design and fabric have been misunderstood and misrepresented in the supporting documents, especially the Conservation Management Plan (CMP).

It is not too late to rethink the design and return to a heritage-based understanding of these important Bicentennial buildings. Retaining the lightweight cladding and the existing structures will retain the external aesthetic significance of the building and retaining the existing internal museum structures of ramps, stairs and mezzanines will retain a spatially interesting museum that has served Sydney well since 1988.

The points made in Docomomo Australia’s submission, dated 24 May 2024, on the Revision F amendments are even more applicable to this current Revision G proposal.

Given the SHR listing of the entire complex and the unsympathetic nature and extent of the proposed works, Docomomo Australia considers that the “revitalisation” proposal should be the subject of a design excellence competition with the brief including the SHR listing as one of the factors informing the desired outcome of the place, supported by an updated rigorous CMP that has been prepared by consultants with the requisite architectural expertise. A design excellence competition would be appropriate given the nature of the changed circumstances and status of the building complex.

Docomomo Australia also continues to submit that the current “revitalization” project should not proceed in its current form and that the significance of the site has not to date been adequately assessed in the CMP or responded to in the proposed works. The existing brief and CMP, guiding the current works, does not demonstrate an understanding of the complex’s significance and has resulted in an outcome that will destroy the architecture of the Wran Wing and Galleria as well as the very function of the museum as a museum of applied arts and sciences.

The works as currently proposed will have a major impact on the significance of this SHR listed item as virtually none of the award-winning, much-admired 1988 Bicentennial building would remain. The proposal should be refused on this basis.

Yours faithfully

To:


NSW Planning Department

https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/powerhouse-ultimo-


modification-1-additional-demolition-and-rebuild-wran-building-removal-loading-dock-
and-other-internal-and-external-changes

Foxground, 29 July, 2025

SUBMISSION from DR LINDSAY SHARP

Founding Director, Powerhouse Museum (1978-1988)
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POWERHOUSE ULTIMO MODIFICATION 1

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ADDITIONAL DEMOLITION AND REBUILD OF THE WRAN
BUILDING, REMOVAL OF THE LOADING DOCK AND
OTHER INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL CHANGES

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STATE SIGNIFICANT PROJECT APPLICATION

SSD-67588459-Mod 1



I completely oppose and object to these additional proposed amendments- so called 'modifications'- to an existing inappropriate, unpopular, destructive, and wasteful project.



The fact that the exhibition period is limited to 13 days is obviously an attempt to limit time for analysis, comment and submission.



This is shameless.



A classic example of bureaucrats, creating rules, who then manipulate them to both evade and avoid real scrutiny, transparency and responsibility for irrational, unprofessional and profoundly sub-optimal decisions.



A cascading tsunami of folly and professional failure, by many, or most of the 'experts' concerned- plus Government and the client.



You couldn't make this up except in a farce.



Front end summary: these extraordinary and vandalistic changes include, but are not limited to:



*The absolute, unwarranted demolition of the Wran Building and of the Galleria without any reliable or credible justification in terms of heritage preservation, cost, waste and best practice for a museum.



* The complete overturning of the SSD Title and intent: 'Heritage Revitalisation'- now an absolute misnomer; in fact, this 'modification' represents complete destruction of the Glendenning adaptive reuse of the Powerhouse Ultimo site



* The complete denial of the Architect of Record's opposition to such barbaric and wasteful changes (Mr. Lionel Glendenning)



* The avoidance of the core NBRS statement:



'Individual buildings including the Ultimo Power House (former), Ultimo Tram Shed (or Harwood building) and Ultimo Post Office (former) have State significance beyond their individual architectural styles and histories, for their contribution since the 1980s to supporting the museum function. The contribution of the purpose-built Wran building, with its distinctive roof form (comprising two arches), and general scale, characterises the architectural influence of the 1988 museum redevelopment. Together with the complex it has State significance for its associations with political, design and museum figures including Neville Wran, Jack Ferguson, Lionel Glendenning, Richard Johnson, Lindsay Sharp and Norman Harwood. The Powerhouse Museum Complex has State social significance for people across Sydney, NSW, and Australia for whom it represents an important educational and cultural institution and tourist destination. Its changing use from power station to cultural institution and ongoing evolution to support museum exhibition, programs and operations offers insights into technological change, development, and urban renewal in NSW.' (Page 27)



And the illogical ranking of structural/building significance- contrary to Mr Croker's report- plus the illogical, self-contradictory following statements thereafter, exacerbated by a reliance on the inaccurate and misleading Curio report assumptions and history as applied to the original Wran building but not updated to take into account the faux replica building's reduced scale and degraded functionality. This NBRS document is profoundly faulted.



* The substitution of a completely faux pastiche 'architecture', a kind of amateur attempt, to mimic the brick structures of the two major Halls (see below) in ways which completely transgress ICOMOS heritage rules and NSW Heritage Act desiderata; as exhibited in the 'approximate replica' (sic) of the Wran building- which is 'naff', facile, expensive and stupid



* This complete proposed contrary action/modification against the expert advice of Australia's leading professional in the field: Mr. Alan Croker



* This complete proposed contrary action/modification thwarting thousands of negative public comments and petitions calling for a true PHMU retention and restoration/innovative upgrade as a museum



* The complete contrary action/modification contravening Minister Graham's many undertakings during 2023 to preserve the Powerhouse Museum, which it now appears he did not mean; it also demonstrates his lack of understanding of this heritage, carbon/ fiscal cost and pathetic architectural maladroitness, which passes way above his addled 'night time economy' comprehension.



* The extraordinary reversal, so as to obviate the previously proposed new loading dock, reextend the dedicated/designated project site's perimeter/curtilage to include the Harwood Building; in regards to which there are only three possible 'explanations' for such an egregious planning failure: all indicate profound and shocking incompetence, or delayed and misleading earlier statements and actions by Government and the authorities, or both



* The massive increase in additional, uncalculated carbon load above and beyond the already huge, equally uncalculated carbon load caused by the staggering demolition of the1988 Glendenning interventions inside the two major Halls- Boiler and Engine/Generator- thereby completely breaking Government's own protocols, making the project illegal and, in SSD planning terms, null and void



* The likely- undeclared- increase in construction costs resulting from yet another profound change in project scope and project creep



* The complete lack of any relevant Business Case- as with the last iteration in the recent SSD which utilised a summary of the 2018 Business Case- avoiding a Business Case which is germane to the Powerhouse Museum, Ultimo project, again breaking planning regulations and making the altered SSD 'plan as modified' without financial or fiscal justification. To underline this: there is no Business Case, thus making the 'modification' 'plans' null and void.



* The now unavoidable fact that important Wran heritage structures are being replaced by pastiche 'replicas' that are significantly shorter, clad in brick walls, and hidden behind a row of souvenir shops that mock and destroy their dignity and street/site presence, while creating a tawdry shopping strip along Harris Street.



*The further direct loss of exhibition space both on the footprint of the Wran Building, and including a substitution of a ramp in the Galleria, obviating the original designed space for the Number 1 Locomotive and Train



*All of the above directly violates established international heritage principles and NSW Government's own planning protocols

.

* In particular: Article 6 of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS)’ Venice Charter (1964) clearly states:



"The conservation of a monument implies preserving a setting which is not out of scale. Wherever the traditional setting exists, it must be kept. No new construction, demolition or modification which would alter the relations of mass and colour must be allowed."



(https://admin.icomos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Venice_Charter_EN.pdf)



* In particular the Heritage Council of NSW and Penny Sharpe, Minister, gazetted the “Powerhouse Museum Complex” state heritage-listing just a year ago (Gazette of 12 July, 2024 https://gazette.nsw.gov.au/gazette/2024/7/2024-7_268-gazette.pdf)



* And specifically, the City of Sydney Council and Lord Mayor, Clover Moore, supported the project “in principle” but subject to a revision of “the extent of intervention and whether this is an appropriate adaptive reuse”.



* Given the above core summary it is simply untenable that these [third] 'theme-park', faux makeover 'modifications' meet the values, criteria. and requirements of the Minister's gazettal and Sydney City Council's express requirements, let alone NSW's Planning Department's Rules and Regulations.



* This is not 'Heritage Revitalisation'- as mis-described by Government- but 'Heritage Destruction'- a misleading misdirection destroying the stated intent of this SSD.




As the Founding Director of the Powerhouse Museum (1979-1988) and Director of

four National Museums, I know whereof I write.



I am completely supportive of the public and popular movement to
retain the Powerhouse Museum at its Ultimo site as a world-class Museum of
Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS), a role it has successfully undertaken since opening in 1988.



And not as a commercial 'Rave space', concert venue, hotel, shopping strip and almost entirely de-contextualised

(heritage/historical/cultural), occasional, vastly reduced (square metres of display) exhibition facility for sundry smaller objects-

if the museum loving public are lucky.

More detailed objections:



Proposed modifications include –



* Complete desecration and destruction of the original 'Modernist' Structures as designed by the Architect of record- Mr. Lionel Glendenning-

and as recommended for preservation by Australia's leading expert- Mr. Alan Croker (Design 5 report)


* The cancellation of the Macarthur Street underground loading dock and...


* The re-inclusion of the Harwood Building.



Until this spectacular 'U' turn 'modification', the Harwood Building had been
specifically excised from the “Powerhouse Museum Ultimo Complex”, and incorrectly described as not within the curtilage of the original Power Stations- although this was essentially first created to power Sydney's then world-leading Tram Infrastructure as it grew rapidly after 1900.

1. Executive Summary

I write to formally object to the proposed Modification 1 to SSD-67588459 concerning the “revitalisation” of the Powerhouse Museum Ultimo. This modification—particularly the complete demolition of the Wran Building and Galleria, the removal of the underground loading dock, changes to the Switch House, and other internal and external interventions—is inappropriate, unjustified, and fundamentally at odds with local and international heritage, planning, and public value principles.

It constitutes a reversal of public interest, fails to comply with heritage obligations, is environmentally irresponsible, and procedurally flawed.

⸻

2. Demolition of State Heritage Structures – The Wran Building and Galleria

The proposed demolition and “replica” rebuild of the Wran Building and Galleria is:
• In direct breach of Article 6 of the Venice Charter (ICOMOS), which requires preservation of scale, mass, and materials in heritage settings.
• Contrary to the State Heritage Register listing (12 July 2024), which recognises these structures as integral components of the Powerhouse Museum Complex.
• Culturally reckless, replacing an award-winning steel-and-glass design with a shorter, brick-clad imitation hidden behind souvenir shops—an affront to public architecture and civic dignity.
• A destruction of real heritage to make way for a theme-park pastiche, not adaptive reuse.

⸻

3. Misleading Justification and Engineering Oversight

The applicant claims the Wran structure “cannot support the approved works” due to load-bearing limitations—caused only by the new brick material selected. This:
• Represents flawed planning, as material compatibility should have been resolved earlier in the assessment process.
• Indicates a deliberate or negligent oversight, potentially intended to justify total demolition after gaining earlier approvals.
• Is inconsistent with the building’s original 100-year design life, per 1980s engineering codes.

⸻

4. Environmental and Economic Mismanagement
• Demolishing structurally sound, State-listed buildings only 37 years old is environmentally indefensible, given the embodied carbon loss.
• New construction with heavier steel and brick increases the carbon footprint, contrary to NSW’s own sustainability targets.
• Project budget is already at risk of blowout, and operational costs are expected to divert funds from regional arts and cultural institutions for years.
• The economic rationale for demolition (rather than reuse) has never been disclosed to the public.

⸻

5. Functional Downgrades and Public Access Impacts

The removal of the Macarthur Street underground loading dock undermines basic logistical functioning of a major museum. It raises serious concerns about:
• Deliveries, waste collection, emergency access, and exhibition logistics.
• Long-term operational viability without adequate back-of-house infrastructure.

At the same time:
• Exhibition space will be reduced by approximately 75%.
• Permanent exhibits (transport, space, steam) will not return.
• A six-year closure (minimum) is expected, far exceeding the publicly stated three-year period.

⸻

6. Procedural Failures and Erosion of Public Trust
• Despite overwhelming public opposition (97% of submissions against the SSD application), the original project was approved.
• The public was not consulted on key changes to the museum’s function, layout, or heritage footprint.
• Crucial documents remain withheld:
• Business Case
• Exhibition Plan
• Conservation Management Plan
• Structural Reports justifying demolition
• Experts including the founding director Dr Lindsay Sharp and architect Lionel Glendenning were not consulted.

⸻

7. Planning Law Breach – Not a “Modification”

The scale of proposed demolition, reconstruction, and reconfiguration:
• Alters the footprint, form, and use of the site
• Invalidates the claim that this is a “modification” under s4.55 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
• Requires a new Development Application, especially considering the altered structure and function of the site

⸻

8. Conditional Support Withdrawn – City of Sydney and Heritage Minister

The City of Sydney’s previous “in-principle” support was based on:
1. Provision of equivalent exhibition space
2. Appropriate adaptive reuse of heritage fabric

Neither condition has been met, making continued support indefensible. The Heritage Minister is now placed in the contradictory position of approving demolition of a building formally listed under her own portfolio.

⸻

9. Conclusion and Request for Action

I respectfully request that:
• Modification 1 be rejected in full
• A new proposal be submitted that prioritises genuine adaptive reuse
• The original Wran-era structures be retained and restored, not replaced by inferior replicas
• The Department reassess whether a fresh DA is required
• All future submissions be facilitated by a transparent and consultative planning process

This proposal is deeply flawed and destructive. It is a betrayal of the Powerhouse Museum’s legacy, the public’s trust, and the fundamental obligations of responsible planning in New South Wales.

Please see attached submission from the National Trust of Australia (NSW).

Please refer to attached submission

As a local resident of Ultimo for over 40 years, I wish to register my strong objection to the proposed Powerhouse modification – your Ref: 67588459-Mod-1.

The Wran Building and Galleria are not merely functional structures—they are architecturally significant and deeply valued by residents and visitors alike. These buildings were purpose-built, attractive, and remain perfectly serviceable. These structures are a vital part of the museum’s identity and our community’s cultural heritage. Their destruction contradicts the very principles of sustainability, heritage preservation, and good governance. The proposal to demolish and replace them with imitations is unthinkable and disrespectful to our local heritage.

This so-called “revitalization” represents a misdirection of public funds. Instead of restoring and enhancing the existing infrastructure—which has served the public well—taxpayers’ money will be wasted dismantling and poorly replicating what already exists. This will result in unnecessary delays, ballooning costs, and a diminished institution.

I urge decision-makers to listen to the community they are meant to serve. Retain the Wran Building. Preserve the Galleria. Respect the legacy of the Powerhouse and the people who care deeply for it.

On behalf of Ultimo Village Voice, I wish to register our strong and unwavering objection to the proposed Powerhouse modification – your Ref: 67588459-Mod-1.
The Wran Building and Galleria are not merely functional structures—they are architecturally significant and deeply valued by residents and visitors alike. These buildings were purpose-built, attractive, and remain perfectly serviceable. The proposal to demolish and replace them with imitations is not only fiscally irresponsible but culturally and environmentally indefensible.
The demolition of the loading dock further suggests a concerning lack of commitment to the museum's core purpose: hosting exhibitions of scale and ambition. This move raises serious questions about whether the government even intends for this site to continue functioning as a world-class museum in the future.
This so-called “revitalisation” represents a misdirection of public funds. Instead of restoring and enhancing the existing infrastructure—which has served the public well—taxpayers’ money will be wasted dismantling and poorly replicating what already exists. This will result in unnecessary delays, ballooning costs, and a diminished institution.
Ultimo Village Voice members —along with many other local and international organisations and museum and heritage experts,—have consistently called for the retention of the Wran Building and Galleria. These structures are a vital part of the museum’s identity and our community’s cultural heritage. Their destruction contradicts the very principles of sustainability, heritage preservation, and good governance.
We are particularly dismayed by the continued lack of transparency surrounding these decisions. As local residents—many of us lifelong supporters of the Powerhouse—we had hoped that the Minns government would adopt a more consultative and conservation-minded approach. Instead, what we are witnessing is a deep betrayal of public trust and a disturbing disregard for community voices and expert advice.
The proposed modifications are inappropriate, unpopular, destructive, and wasteful, and must be firmly and unequivocally opposed.
The planned demolition and approximate replication of the Wran Building and Galleria are not only disrespectful to our local heritage, they also violate international conservation standards. Article 6 of the ICOMOS Venice Charter (1964) is clear:
“The conservation of a monument implies preserving a setting which is not out of scale. Wherever the traditional setting exists, it must be kept. No new construction, demolition or modification which would alter the relations of mass and colour must be allowed.”
We urge decision-makers to honour these principles and to listen—finally—to the community they are meant to serve. Retain the Wran Building. Preserve the Galleria. Respect the legacy of the Powerhouse and the people who care deeply for it.
Sincerely,
Bill d'Anthes, Emeritus Chair and Andrew Niven, Chair, Ultimo Village Voice

I strongly object to the proposed “additional demolition and rebuild of the Wran Building and removal of the loading dock and other internal and external changes.”
The Wran Building and Galleria is a well-constructed, purpose built, functional, and attractive structure with significant social and architectural heritage value. It will be replaced with an imitation of the existing building, involving yet more money and no doubt further delaying the opening of what is left of this important and cherished, site-specific museum. And what about the demolition of the loading dock? Is it because the government plans to have no exhibitions – permanent or temporary – that require a loading dock?
There is nothing wrong, and everything right, about the Wran Building and everything slated for demolition in this ‘modification application’. At the end, what we will end up with is millions of dollars and many years wasted. A museum that is a shadow of its former glorious self. I strongly reject of this modification and the advocate the retention of these buildings. This will ensure that at least some part of this ‘revitalised Powerhouse retains the integrity for which it was once world-renowned.

Submission: Objection to Modifications to PUR SSD
I object to this modification to the approved Revitalisation SSD. In so doing, I also restate my objection to the Heritage Revitalisation SSD-67588459 which dismantles the Sulman award winning Powerhouse Museum, rendering the remaining building envelopes and spaces unsuitable for the viable continuance of the Powerhouse Museum. The proposed outcomes of this SSD and the proposed modification are contrary to the government's promise to save the Powerhouse Museum as the Museum's proven museum standard functionality, as evidenced by its popular success since opening in 1988, is being disastrously eroded. The Revitalisation SSD reduces the Powerhouse Museum's exhibition space from 21,800 sqm to just 5,100sqm. This is negating to the government's purported intent to deliver a 'Heritage Revitalisation' of the Powerhouse Museum.
This modification signals the government's disregard of both its publicly stated goals to save the Powerhouse Museum. It is demolition, not saving.
This modification illustrates the dishonesty of INSW in developing and promoting, against popular and expert objections and considered advice, an expensive and wasteful project which will not result in the Heritage Revitalisation of the Powerhouse Museum.
The Powerhouse Museum has delivered a professional, museum standard exhibition program using its best practice Harwood Building museum facilities. While it may be that the proponents are actually trying to save money on an already wasteful and unnecessary SSD, this particular modification also suggests that the government will dispose of the Harwood Building, which in practice is an essential component of the effective running of the Museum. Harwood now needs to remain as part of the Powerhouse Museum campus, in the absence of any other dock.
The modification will result in the demolition of the Wran Building and Galleria - the signature elements of the popular success of the Powerhouse Museum: the grand entry and massive and adaptable exhibition space and volume of the Wran building; and the soaring Galleria - the inspired structure uniting the contemporary with the heritage structures of the Ultimo Power House - both major circulation paths to experience the Powerhouse Museum.
Claims made by the proponents of the SSD that the Wran Building was not used for exhibitions are false. From the Museum's opening in 1988, the Wran building functioned as a flexible exhibition space, able to accommodate major touring exhibitions, such as Greek Antiquities held to mark the Sydney 2000 Olympics, as well as Museum-generated exhibitions on a wide range of subjects drawing on the Museum's Collection. Similarly, the Galleria was always a key exhibition space, highlighting internationally and nationally significant objects from the Collection so as to lead visitors to explore key themes throughout the Museum's galleries. The major theme is the beginning of the Industrial Revolution which underpins the purpose and potential of the Powerhouse Museum - a museum of the Applied Arts and the Applied Sciences.
The destruction of the Museum's established and continuing purpose under its Act - an applied arts and sciences museum - is further illustrated by the specific INSW proposed exemption to the false and ineffectual State Heritage Listing, the exemption that allows the removal of the historic floor and other built structures of the 1899 Engine House set within the Turbine Hall. This popular, educational and rare exhibition of historically significant Australian and international steam engines is the 'beating heart' of the Museum, operating in synergy with the world treasure, the 1793 Boulton & Watt beam engine.
The fact that these significant museum objects have been removed to storage, the fact that the INSW Exemptions allow for the removal of the heritage significant original Engine House and the fact that this modification proposes, at great expense to the NSW taxpayer, to demolish two heritage and architecturally significant structures, the Wran Building and the Galleria shows how ill thought out and wasteful, and contrary to what the people of NSW actually want, the SSD is.
I further note and object to the fact that the proposals to demolish the Wran and Galleria are against the ICOMOS Venice Charter 1964 which states that "The conservation of a monument implies preserving a setting which is not out of scale. Wherever the traditional setting exists, it must be kept. No new construction, demolition or modification which would alter the relations of mass and colour must be allowed.' Article 6.
I object to the fact that this modification will destroy the essence of the Powerhouse Museum's conception and purpose by stripping out these two key built elements, needlessly replacing them with what appear to be brick culverts with vertiginous stairways - a poor excuse for public circulation in what are now inspiring, sky-framing, glorious and proven functional museum spaces to show off our Australian and international treasures.
I would ask that the NSW restore the Ultimo Museum, and make all repairs required to reopen the Museum as soon as possible. Establish a new senior management team with proven Museum (not art gallery) experience.
Than you

Dear Planning Department,
I am Writing to Express my continued objection to this project.

The Powerhouse Museum and The Wran Building are an important part of Sydney's Built history and the Powerhouse museum as it was is an important part of the lives of many Residents of Greater Sydney and NSW. There is absolutely no reason to Demolish the Wran Building. there is also no commitment to permanent exhibitions when the museum reopens, No Transport, Space, Experimenations , Steam Revolution exhibitions means it is not the Powerhouse Museum

I strongly object to the demolition of the Wran-Era heritage building and its replacement with an alternative structure that provides little of its aesthetical appeal and none of the heritage value of the original structure. I also object to the likely reduction in the exhibition space of the museum and the lengthy closure of the museum to the public and substantial environmental costs this demolition will require.

As someone who has enjoyed and regularly visited this museum from soon after we moved to the Sydney in 1987 and who moved into the local area 11 years ago I am appalled at the lack of transparency and repeated attempts to over-ride the advice of both architectural experts and local community supporters. With the change in NSW to a Labor government I had hoped for a more consultative, conservationally-aware and environmentally friendly solution to preservation of this culturally and architecturally significant building. It seems all the promises made to seduce voters carried no weight. I deplore the duplicity of our elected government which does not honour promises made nor respect the voters who elected them on the platform they promoted.

I object to this modification to the approved Revitalisation SSD. In so doing, I reiterate my objection to the misnamed Heritage Revitalisation SSD-67588459 which essentially guts the Sulman award winning Powerhouse Museum, rendering the remaining building envelopes and spaces unsuitable for the viable continuance of the Powerhouse Museum. The proposed outcomes of this SSD and the proposed Modification are contrary to the Government's promise to save the Powerhouse Museum as the Museum's proven museum standard functionality, as evidenced by its popular success since opening in 1988, is being disastrously eroded. Most seriously, the Powerhouse Museum's exhibition space is being reduced from 21,800 sqm to just 5,100sqm. This is antithetical to the Government's purported intent to deliver a 'Heritage Revitalisation' of the Powerhouse Museum.
In fact, this Modification clearly signals the Government's disregard of both its publicly stated goals, and the falsity of the State Heritage listing of the Powerhouse Museum Complex on 12 July 2024 which, in fact, had 13 Exemptions approved by the Minister for Heritage following the specification of those Exemptions by INSW. These Exemptions allow for the 1988 Powerhouse Museum to effectively be demolished - hence the massive reduction in exhibition space combined with the loss of visitor amenities such as theatres, education spaces, ease of circulation - replaced by flights of stairs, bricked up caverns etc.
This wasteful Modification, adding to the already wasteful 'Heritage Revitalisation SSD, betrays the poor planning and deeply concerning - almost deliberate ignorance, about the Powerhouse Museum's conception, design, construction and operations as a complete, world standard museum on its Powerhouse Museum Complex site.
Furthermore, this Modification illustrates the deceitfulness of INSW in developing and promoting, against popular and expert objections and considered advice, an expensive wasteful, destructive project which will patently NOT result in the Heritage Revitalisation of the Powerhouse Museum.
I further note the public and expert advice that a loading dock under the Harris St courtyard entered from Macarthur St was an unworkable and ill thought out proposal and, that the Powerhouse Museum had delivered a professional, museum standard exhibition program using its best practice Harwood Building museum facilities. While it may be that the proponents are actually trying to save money on an already wasteful and unnecessary SSD, this particular Modification illustrates the willful ignorance of the proponents.
Furthermore, the claim by INSW that the Wran and Galleria's steel structures do not meet appropriate industry construction standards are false and misleading. The steel structures are entirely up to the standard for supporting the rooves of both the Wran and Galleria buildings. It is the fanciful, heavy, useless bricking up of these spaces which will require expensive demolition of existing steel arches and then new steel structures to carry the proponents' ill thought out and wasteful intervention. This Modification is because of the pointless, wasteful and unnecessary proposal by the architects to use their usual brick skin/facade to cover the former Wran and Galleria volumes.
In fact, as we and others have said - do the long delayed/ignored repairs and maintenance to the building fabric, renew the much loved exhibitions and reopen the Powerhouse Museum for the people of NSW to enjoy once again.
Most blatantly, the Modification will result in the demolition of the Wran Building and Galleria - the signature elements of the popular success of the Powerhouse Museum: the grand entry and massive and adaptable exhibition space and volume of the Wran building; and the soaring Galleria - the inspired structure uniting the contemporary with the heritage structures of the Ultimo Power House - both major circulation paths to experience the Powerhouse Museum.
I note, that contrary to claims made by the proponents of these schemes that the Wran Building was NOT used for exhibitions, from the Museum's opening in 1988, the Wran building functioned extremely well till its premature closure,as a flexible exhibition space, able to accommodate major touring exhibitions, such as Greek Antiquities held to mark the Sydney 2000 Olympics, as well as Museum-generated exhibitions on a wide range of subjects drawing on the Museum's Collection. Similarly, the Galleria was always a key exhibition space, highlighting internationally and nationally significant objects from the Collection so as to lead visitors to explore key themes throughout the Museum's galleries. The major theme is the beginning of the Industrial Revolution which underpins the purpose and potential of the Powerhouse Museum - a museum of the Applied Arts and the Applied Sciences. The destruction of the Museum's established and continuing purpose under its Act - an applied arts and sciences museum - is further illustrated by the specific INSW proposed exemption to the false and ineffectual State Heritage Listing, is the exemption that allows the removal of the historic floor and other built structures of the 1899 Engine House set within the Turbine Hall. This popular, educational and rare exhibition of historically significant Australian and international steam engines is the 'beating heart' of the Museum, operating in synergy with the world treasure, the 1793 Boulton & Watt beam engine. The fact that these significant museum objects have been removed to storage, the fact that the INSW Exemptions allow for the removal of the heritage significant original Engine House and the fact that this Modification proposes, at great expense to the NSW taxpayer, to demolish two heritage and architecturally significant structures, the Wran Building and the Galleria shows just how morally and ethically bankrupt this long saga of the effective demolition of the people's Powerhouse Museum is - especially as these pathetic schemes are against the strong and consistent public objections to the various, ill thought out, wasteful schemes to effectively destroy the Powerhouse Museum - a world respected museum with a long and distinguished record of popular and professional success.
I further note and object to the fact that the proposals to effectively demolish the Wran and Galleria are against the ICOMOS Venice Charter 1964 which states that "The conservation of a monument implies preserving a setting which is not out of scale. Wherever the traditional setting exists, it must be kept. No new construction, demolition or modification which would alter the relations of mass and colour must be allowed.' Article 6.
If the Minister for Heritage, and the Heritage Council of NSW have any commitment to the Gazettal of the Powerhouse Museum Complex on the State Heritage Register, July 12 2024 - notwithstanding the deceitful exemptions specified by INSW, then these Modifications regarding the Wran Building and Galleria will not proceed as neither the Minister for Heritage nor the Heritage Council would not support them. Indeed both entities would speak out against them and the entirely hoax Heritage Revitalisation - the PUR SSD.
Likewise, The Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore, could not support this Modification given Council's flagged concern about 'the extent of intervention and whether this is an appropriate adaptive reuse.'
I object to the fact that this Modification will destroy the essence of the Powerhouse Museum's conception and purpose by stripping out these two key built elements, needlessly replacing them with what appear to be outsize, upside down brick culverts with vertiginous stairways - a poor excuse for public circulation in what are now inspiring, sky-framing, glorious and proven functional museum spaces to show off our Australian and international treasures. The Modification illustrates the mismanagement and weak conception at the core of this baseless SSD and Modification. The proponents are grasping at straws, backing and filling and betraying their lack of knowledge, of experience and of capability to develop any project that would in any way eclipse the architectural, museological and popular success of our Powerhouse Museum.
In fact, as we and others have said the best course of action is that, guided and informed by the Design5 CMP, by museum professionals and informed by the community's expectations of their Powerhouse Museum, the Government should do the long delayed/ignored repairs and maintenance to the Powerhouse Museum's building fabric, renew the much loved exhibitions and reopen the Powerhouse Museum for the people of NSW to enjoy once again. Not only would the Government keep its promise to actually Save the Powerhouse Museum, the Government would also stop the wasteful expenditure of taxpayers money on a deeply unpopular and deceitful museum demolition project.
The NSW Labor Government should be ashamed to be in any way enabling, let alone funding the destruction and disappearance of perhaps Labor's greatest cultural achievement - the 1988 Powerhouse Museum.
Jennifer Sanders
M.ICOMOS
Former Deputy Director Powerhouse Museum
Powerhouse Museum career 1978 - 2009
Founding member, Powerhouse Museum Alliance
Churchill Fellow 1982
Getty Museum Leadership Program 1987

I strongly object to both the overall “Revitalisation” project and the currently exhibited Modification 1.

I have consistently opposed the various “Renewal” and “Revitalisation” schemes that have been advanced over the years by the same Museum Management/Create NSW/Infrastructure NSW team appointed by the previous Liberal Coalition Government. Their decisions have already seen the closure of the Museum, the removal of the Heritage Collection of Exhibits and the vandalism with the gutting of the internal structures of what was once a world renowned and respected Museum of Arts and Applied Sciences. Its closure has deprived me of being able to take my grandchildren to view the wonderful exhibits of our heritage and introduce them to and generate an interest in the world of science and technology as I did with my own children.

The proposed “Modification 1” calls for the complete demolition of the Wran Building and the Galleria which have been Heritage Listed. How can the proposed “AAppproximate Replica”built with different materials and substantially shorter be a retention of the heritage and character of the existing buildings. Overseas countries are able to maintain and retain their buildings which are much older (centuries) than the Wran Building and retain their character and heritage. Why is it, that we, with our relatively short heritage of European occupation, can’t retain what little heritage we have? The Powerhouse Museum Complex was State Heritage Listed in July 2024, including the Wran additions. What value does State Heritage Listing have if Government bodies won’t abide by them? It is an act of cultural vandalism.

Why demolish the existing buildings which are and then rebuild in a lesser format when previous Consultants’ Reports have indicated that the Museum could have been Restored and Revitalised without closure at a much reduced cost than the current proposals? The project represents poor value for public money.

Also most Government projects are having huge cost blow outs and time delays. The originally expected closure of the Museum of “UP TO” three years ago has already blown out to the end of 2029. Thank you very much. As an elderly gentleman in my seventies, this ongoing woeful saga of broken promises and “Revisions/ Rethinks” has deprived me of many enjoyable outings with my grandchildren to view the previous permanent exhibitions (Steam Revolution, Transport and Space, Locomotive No 1, etc) and generate their interest in Science and Technology. At this rate I doubt that I will ever get to see the Ultimo Powerhouse Museum returned to its former glory and enjoyment for the public.

I strongly object to the proposed modifications with the destruction of our Heritage buildings and the additional costs and time delays that will entail together with the greatly reduced exhibitions space.

Neville Pleffer

I object to the proposed alterations and additions to the Powerhouse Museum Ultimo, at 500 Harris Street, Ultimo, under State Significant Development, SSD-67588459_Mod 1.

Refer to the attached letter.

I OBJECT to Powerhouse Ultimo Modification 1 - Additional demolition and rebuild of the Wran Building, removal of the loading dock and other internal and external changes.

I was infuriated to learn that the unpopular redevelopment of the Powerhouse Museum (PHM) now requires the demolition, and reconstruction of the Wran Building (and Galleria) - an award winning, heritage listed and purpose built building! What a waste of time, money and resources.

Museums are supposed to preserve and celebrate our heritage, not destroy it and replace it with irrelevant replicas.

We have already lost Willow Grove and the St George's Terrace houses in Parramatta, and now, more heritage is at risk.

I thought the PHM was going to be saved. However, this new proposal is literally going to destroy a major part of it, and then replace it with an approximate and irrelevant replica - and a measly photo display! That is completely unacceptable. I feel this project has just 'jumped the shark,' so to speak.

I do not understand how a major construction/redevelopment project can be approved, without first determining that one of the main buildings is unable to accommodate the proposed changes.

This project is already unpopular with the people of NSW, as evidenced by the large number of objections submitted during mulitple exhibition periods, and signatures collected by petitions condemning it. Industry experts have also voiced their concerns and/or rejection of the project as well.

It is therefore disappointing that public opinion is continually ignored regarding this redevelopment.

It couldn't be any more clearer. This large-scale public rejection can't be brushed aside. It is time to do what is right and respect the wishes of the public.

Scrap this wasteful 'revitalisation' project and redirect that public money to rectifying the far more important issues that are affecting this state instead. In my opinion, to continue with it is bordering on being farcical and irresponsible.

The redevelopment project documentation (Section 4.55 (2) Modufication Application) talks about preserving heritage as a reason for not altering the Wran Building to accommodate the initial proposed changes:

"...construction of additional steel bars which have been assessed as not acceptable from a heritage perspective due to visible impacts upon the distinctive curved roof form..."

But demolishing this iconic, award-winning heritage-listed, purpose-built building and replacing it with a replica, is acceptable?!

How is that "preserving" heritage?! If the proposed changes are not suitable, they should be abandoned as they are clearly inappropriate.

The Wran Building and Galleria must not be destroyed and then replaced with a duplicate. A replica and a photographic display offer nothing when compared to the real thing, which is still standing in situ. After all, the articles exhibited within the museum are all genuine, aren't they?

I am horrified at the destruction which has already occurred to the Powerhouse Museum. It has gone from a world class museum to a "What am I?"
The destruction of the Wran Building will contribute to our historical buildings loss. We should be valuing and protecting our heritage.
If a design cannot incorporate the protection of the old along with modernization, then the designers are NOT equal to the task and need replacing.
The dismantling and destruction of the original Powerhouse Museum will be remembered as a disgrace to the Gov'ts involved.
The Wran building is part of OUR heritage, do not destroy it.

This modification continues down the path of destroying the heritage and social values of the once great Powerhouse Museum. The 1988 renewal created all that is important about the Powerhouse Museum. The Wran Building should actually be restored as it is, certainly not reduced to nothing authentic. Inclusion of the Harwood Building is sensible. The whole building should actually be renovated and conserved - much cheaper than this massive undertaking of dubious architectural merit that radically reduces exhibition floor space and destroys heritage and social significance.